Duck Banding - Part 3

In the last post I talked abut the process of identifying the species, sex and age of the ducks. Once that is completed the band is put on.

The bands come in several sizes, and different band number series are used for males and females, and for immature and adult ducks.  The bands are painted to help us locate the correct band, but the paint flakes off in a few days and the aluminum band will be silver from then on.

The bands are kept on this carousel to keep the different sizes and series separated and allow is to find the correct band quickly.  When you are holding a duck in one hand you don't want to be fussing around trying to find the correct band!

Teri keeps this sheet on her clipboard.  It tells us what size band is used for each duck species.  The Mallards use the largest size, while the Teal use much smaller bands. In some species the females get a slightly smaller band than the males.

Teri records the species, sex and age, along with the band size and number.  This critical information is kept so that when a banded duck is found, the banding information can be accessed. 

To begin banding I hold the upside-down duck along my left side, with its head under my arm.  This allows me to hold the duck safely while I use my right hand to close the band.  Some ducks are more cooperative than others. This Mallard was pretty mellow. 

The band is placed on the right leg of the duck. We use regular pliers to close the bands. 

We are careful to get the bands closed tightly and evenly, as leaving an edge or gap could cause the band to catch vegetation.  We don't want to cause the duck any future problems!

The duck is released with new jewelry to go off and live a happy life!!

Mark