Bird Banding - 2011 Season
With new net run locations in place, bander Amber Carver directing banding and a flock of volunteers, our fall banding season got underway at the Nature Center amidst the warmth of mid-September.
Due to a major change in curriculum, and minimal funds, many teachers were unable to attend bird banding with their 5th graders this year. They were sorely missed. However, we did have new schools in attendance for the first time, including Holy Family, Gateway School, Grand River Virtual and Independence Academies. Over 500 students from 8 different schools were treated to a wonderful trip in the “school of the great out doors”. We appreciate the efforts undertaken by teachers at Rim Rock, Wingate, Shelledy and New Emerson who know the great value this field trip has for their students....and came!
The banding station engages students in the science of bird migration and data collection. As Amber and her corps of volunteers checked nets and retrieved birds, students had opportunities to observe wild birds up close as she weighed, measured and checked feathers and fat content before their release. Although not a bird that is banded, a few American Coots met an unfortunate end on the nearby power lines, but became great teaching tools for students as they increased their powers of observation, as well as their appreciation and under standing of unique bird adaptations. Students were also taken on a nature walk around the Ela Sanctuary.
It was another low count year, numbering only 18 species, with a total of 118 individual birds. The highest count numbers were among White Crowned Sparrows, Orange Crowned Warblers and Bushtits. Of note: not a single Yellow Rumped Warbler, and only one McGillivray’s Warbler were netted.
Many, many thanks to the great group of dedicated volunteers who were out helping with net runs, with special recognition to Larry Arnold, Rosemary Engard, Eileen Cunningham and Anne Breckenridge. We also send thanks to Kathleen Tadvick at Colorado Parks and Wildlife for underwriting many of the transportation scholarships. We appreciate you all!!
