Ted Becker wrote:

> An aqaintance of mine is very active in Ducks Unlimited. He was telling
> me about their summer duck banding activity and invited me come along when
> the time comes. During the summer molt, when the ducks are flightless,
> they are herded up, captured and banded. What is the general opinion of
> this activity? I am sure I would be unable to dissuade any of this
> activity but at least for my conscience I would like to know if this was
> particularly harmful to the birds and if it is a useful operation. He
> also said they could use more help so if there is interest I will post the
> details as I learn them.
>

As a bander, I am obviously going to say this is a good thing :-). I have
participated in two round-ups of geese and have experienced no problems
whatsoever.

However it is important to note that wild birds are being caught - as far as
they are concerned when being rounded up "predation" is imminent. This is not
the case - but they don't "know" that !!!!

Capturing birds is always going to generate stress. It is up to the expertise
of the people involved to ensure that this is kept to an absolute minimum -
if it can't be then it should not be carried out. If a bird is injured or
severely stressed by capture then it is highly likely to be predated so
putting a band on it is pretty meaningless.

Ensure plenty of holding facilities for the birds, seperate large birds from
small, keep broods together, keep birds in the dark and quiet (reduces
stress), make water available, make sure they don't overheat/get chilled, keep
plumage in good condition, keep handling to an absolute minimum, etc, etc,
etc.

If it is done properly then there should be no problems whatsoever. If it is
not done properly then .....

I'd be interested.

Stuart MacKay