(Continuing with Dawn Garcia’s bird-banding studies at the Big Chico Creek Ecological Reserve (BCCER) this month’s White-tailed Kite highlights information on the uses to which the banding data are put (Ed.))

A  Bird in the Hand - Why Band Birds?

Part 3

Banding data are collected, stored, and shared by the Canadian Wildlife Service and the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory (BBL), established in 1930.  The BBL also authorizes banding permits and federal bands. Recently, the BBL has recognized the importance of bird banding as an educational tool.  A bird in the hand usually makes people stop, look, and want to know more about what they once called “that little brown job” seen in their backyard.  And people armed with knowledge will make more concerned and active citizens who are likely to champion their appreciation of birds and the plight of our feathered friends.  

All birds with bands found dead or alive (if the band can be read) should be reported to the BBL.  Include band number, how, when, and where the band was recovered and the location to nearest town.  The finder, in turn, will receive a certificate of appreciation that states when, where, and by whom the bird was originally banded.  Great information!  An easy way to do this is electronically with this link http://www.pwrc.usgs.gov/bbl/ , or by sending reports to:

Bird Banding Laboratory

12100 Beech Forest Road, Suite 4037

Laurel MD 20708

See the history of a recent recovery of a Lesser Goldfinch (Carduelis psaltria) in this issue. Thank you for your interest and participation in avian science, ecology and conservation!