O.K., I admit it's not as easy as I made it sound last week when I
wrote that the 2-digit code on the peregrines I've banded can be read
from distances of up to 100 m. That's true if you've got a very good
spotting scope and good lighting conditions.

My experience with peregrines on the beach is that one can usually get
closer than 100 m. The biggest problem I've had is that the birds
tend to perch with the feathers of their lower belly covering their
tarsi (lower legs), thus obscuring any band(s) that might be present.

I know it's a challenge, but it's fun to try. I'd appreciate reports
on any banded birds you happen to be able to read the bands on. By the
way, one of the birds I banded last year (23 Dec.) is back again this
year. She's a Falco peregrinus pealei, and she likes the south end of
the Ocean Shores peninsula.

Dan Varland

360-538-4582
9 Harborview Court
Hoquiam, WA 98550