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Our bird banding program, where data is collected on birds caught in soft mesh nets and released, is the cornerstone of our program and our most important research tool.Over 10,000 birds were banded between 1979-86. Since the banding program resumed in 1992, as the foundation of the Rouge River Bird Observatory, nearly 30,000 additional birds now sport the silver bracelet. Data gathered during banding on sex and age ratios, dates of passage, weight gain, molt, and body measurements leads us to a host of insights into the life histories of birds. Recovery of banded birds provides us with information on dispersal, faithfulness to breeding or wintering areas, migration routes, and longevity.
Thus far, 139 species have been banded at UM-D, about one-third of the species found in Michigan.
Summary of banding results (updated Nov 2007)
