We have been moderately busy so far this week, but we've had a few interesting visitors around. Most notably, a Black-billed Magpie got caught in a net on Tuesday, which was so exciting!! Usually they're too wily and can get themselves out, but this bird was young and happened to hit a net while we were checking the net lanes. He was a gorgeous handful.
This report is for 9/19 through 9/21.
New bands:
Downy Woodpecker - 1
Black-billed Magpie - 1
Swainson's Thrush - 1
Hermit Thrush - 1
American Robin - 2
Ruby-crowned Kinglet - 2
Orange-crowned Warbler - 5
Wilson's Warbler - 14
Song Sparrow - 2
Spotted Towhee - 4
Recaptures:
Gray Catbird - 1 (banded earlier this fall)
Swainson's Thrush - 1 (banded earlier this fall)
Black-capped Chickadee - 1 (banded earlier this fall)
Wilson's Warbler - 5 (banded earlier this fall)
Song Sparrow - 2 (banded earlier this fall)
I'm going to add my personal voice to the many opinions that have been expressed about the Barr Lake shore veg destruction and say that I really appreciate folks drawing this to our attention. The Barr Lake banding station is where I first learned about bird banding as a high schooler, and it's part of the reason I am able to be a professional ornithologist today. This development is incredibly disheartening to see, and all my thoughts and love-- as well as my words and actions-- are with everyone who is joining voices to do what we can.
This banding station will be operating Tuesday through Saturday, weather and
trail closures permitting, from sunrise until about 12:30 PM. This week we are opening at 6:30. Peak hours for seeing birds in hand aren't yet established, but so far we have low to moderately steady activity from about 7 to 9 and another small push at around 10:30. Park at the Maxwell Natural Area parking lot and walk south along the trail towards Dixon Reservoir, and you will see our table and awning on the little hillside to the left of the main trail. Consider signing up for your visit at
this link; registration is free and helps us plan ahead for visitor numbers. I hope to see you there!
Josephine Tagestad
Bander, Pineridge Natural Area Station
Bird Conservancy of the Rockies