NEW: Avian Influenza and Migratory Birds News Release: 100 years of Bird Banding in Canada
The Canadian Bird Banding Office administers all banding projects taking place in Canada, and provides banding and recovery information on request. Bird banding is an important part of the scientific study of wild birds. When a bird has a uniquely numbered leg band, an ornithologist can recognize it as a distinct individual. This makes possible studies that help to monitor bird populations, set waterfowl hunting regulations, protect endangered species, and assess the effects of environmental contaminants. |
|
The Canadian Wildlife Service and the United States Geological Survey's Bird Banding Laboratory (BBL) jointly administer the North American Bird Banding Program. Bird banders are thoroughly trained and must hold a government scientific permit to capture and band birds. Much of today's banding contributes to North America–wide monitoring, research, and conservation programs.