Beginning Bird Banding

This course is a basic introduction to banding birds, which is a valuable tool in ornithological research and monitoring. 

This is a moderate activity - less than 5 miles of walking, multiple hours outdoors in the elements. 

Stephen J. Myers is a retired wildlife biologist who has been specializing in bird studies for over 40 years, mostly in southern California. He has been a federally permitted bird bander since 1990. He has participated in banding studies of species such as the Coastal California Gnatcatcher, Least Bell’s Vireo, Nelson’s Sparrow, and Red-winged Blackbird.

Introduction to banding birds is a valuable tool in ornithological research and monitoring. An evening class session will briefly discuss the history, purpose, goals, and methods of banding. Among the topics discussed will be the federal and state permits required of bird banders, the submittal of data to the Bird Banding Laboratory, capture methods, the handling of wild birds, banding birds, the collection of morphological data, and the sexing and aging of birds. The lecture session will be followed by two days of hands-on experience capturing, handling, and banding birds in the field. 

In-person lecture Saturday, November 16, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, at Joshua Tree National Park Store, Yucca Valley & field activities - Saturday and Sunday, November 23-24, 7:00 AM- 1:00 PM, Black Widow Ranch

All required items participants need to bring for your course: clothing free of exposed buttons and zippers (which can get caught in mist nets), camera allowing close-up photographs (smartphones are usually adequate), water, food and snacks, close-toed athletic shoes, sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, appropriate clothing, daypack.

Photo credit: Nikki Woosley, Desert Institute Volunteer