Posted by Jim Hackley on August 29, 2012 at 1:23 AM
I have never seen this type of colorful banding before and wondered if anybody would know why these birds have 4 different bands each with different colors.
Thanks,
Jim
Posted by Jim Hackley on August 29, 2012 at 1:24 AM
Here is another picture of a junco with different banding.
Jim, every band location (upper leg, lower leg, right or left leg) plus every colour means something.
In the US, all banding of wild birds is controlled by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Pemits are issued only to those involved in research of that particular species. (Domestic birds are also banded and carefully regulated by another group)
Banding helps track migration, breeding success (numbers of new chicks), age, endangered bird location and numbers, country/state of banding (Central and South America work closely with the US in bird banding) , and a lot more.
When someone finds a dead wild bird that is banded, it's important to report it to the phone number on the band, or to http://www.pwrc.usgs.gov/BBL/
(This is a short answer - lots more involved)
Sandy
Posted by Peter Hudson on August 29, 2012 at 7:21 AM
Jim it is simply an individual identifier - this bird: Yellow over T, Orange over Pink can be identified for scientific study and is probably part of a detailed behavioral or population study. Individual recognition is extremely important for demographic and behavioral research. You just photographed it in a study area.
Jim, interestingly, I found this info on what is likely your bird's banding origins - and this researcher would like to hear from you, from what she posts. Sounds as if you could get involved,too,if you wish::
As far as "study area" - the whole US (and world) is a "study area!" The birds fly freely and most roam/migrate widely - they certainly don't stay in the original study area.
Sandy
Posted by Doug Backlund on August 29, 2012 at 6:49 PM
Peter is right on. Most banding is done only with the metal band which are numbered, but the bird normally has to be recaptured to read the number. Color banding with a unique arrangement is more efficient for the researchers working on a project like this.
Posted by Jim Hackley on August 30, 2012 at 12:51 PM
Sandy, I have exchanged emails with University of Arizona researcher who is doing the migratory project. I also work at the university so it has been an interesting encounter all the way around.
Thanks for all of your information.
Regards,
Jim
Posted by Robbie Knight on September 15, 2012 at 9:58 PM
Jim I am a USGS permitted bander. If you need help with anything let me know.
Discussion
8 repliesThanks,
Jim
In the US, all banding of wild birds is controlled by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Pemits are issued only to those involved in research of that particular species. (Domestic birds are also banded and carefully regulated by another group)
Banding helps track migration, breeding success (numbers of new chicks), age, endangered bird location and numbers, country/state of banding (Central and South America work closely with the US in bird banding) , and a lot more.
When someone finds a dead wild bird that is banded, it's important to report it to the phone number on the band, or to
http://www.pwrc.usgs.gov/BBL/
(This is a short answer - lots more involved)
Sandy
You are an encyclopedia. It never ceases to amaze me about how much you know! You are a blessing to our group.
http://www.surfbirds.com/birdingmail/Mail/AZNM/1099827
As far as "study area" - the whole US (and world) is a "study area!" The birds fly freely and most roam/migrate widely - they certainly don't stay in the original study area.
Sandy
Thanks for all of your information.
Regards,
Jim
Robbie