By: Sally Siko
Check out this Snow Goose I encountered this past week while birding at the Pea Island NWR in NC. She’s sporting a bright yellow collar.
Although I photographed many Snow Geese (including this family digging for food in the mud together shown in the subsequent photos) I made sure to capture several photos of this one so that I could report the sighting to the USGS.
Bird banding is important for studying the movement, survival and behavior of birds.
Data from banded birds are used in monitoring populations, setting hunting regulations, restoring endangered species, studying effects of environmental contaminants, and addressing such issues as Avian Influenza, bird hazards at airports, and crop depredations.
If you see a banded bird, try and get a clear photograph of the band or collar.
Then visit www.reportband.gov to submit your sighting to the USGS.
Results from banding studies support national and international bird conservation programs such as Partners in Flight, the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, and Wetlands for the Americas.
This is why it’s so important to report what we’re seeing out there.
Once you’ve submitted your report, you’ll receive a certificate of appreciation from the USGS which will include details about the bird you found which is pretty neat too!
According to the certificate, this goose is a female who hatched over 4 years ago in Quebec Canada.
It’s incredible to think that this bird made it all the way down to North Carolina to spend the winter.
I can certainly understand why though because the Pea Island NWR is a special place. One that I always look forward to returning each year as well 🙂
The Snow Geese know what’s good!
Photos by @sally_siko of @birdwatching_nc on my mighty mirrorless monster, the @canonusa #R5