Duck Banding
Bird banding is an important part of the scientific study of wild birds. Banding helps to monitor bird populations, set waterfowl hunting regulations, protect endangered species, and assess the effects of environmental contaminants.
The Canadian Wildlife Service (CWS) and the US Geological Survey's Bird Banding Laboratory (BBL) jointly administer the North American Bird Banding Program. DUC has long been a supporter of this program. Bird banders are thoroughly trained and must hold a government scientific permit to capture and band birds.
Today, banding data remains vital to the monitoring, research and management of migratory waterfowl populations. Click here for more information about the CWS’s Bird Banding Office.
Waterfowl bands: A conservation tool
Read this article to learn more about banding and your role as a hunter in contributing to the health of North America's waterfowl populations.
Reporting leg bands
Tens of thousands of waterfowl are marked each year with leg bands. The North American Bird Banding program relies on hunters like you to help recover bird bands and report this valuable information. The data retrieved from these bands will help scientists and researchers continue to learn about, monitor and conserve our waterfowl populations.
If you recover a banded bird while hunting in Canada, please send the information on the band to the Bird Banding Office by:
- Calling toll-free 1-800-327-2263 (1-800-327-BAND),
- Writing a letter to:
Bird Banding Office
National Wildlife Research Centre
Canadian Wildlife Service
1125 Colonel By Drive (Raven Road)
Ottawa, Canada
K1A 0H3
