Bird banding
Bird banding has been used to study wild birds since the late 1800s. Data taken at banding stations has greatly increased understanding of bird migration and anatomy.
Banding stations are placed in sites where birds congregate in large numbers during migration. These stopovers generally have excellent habitat that offers food and a safe place to rest. Scientists set up a series of mist nets to harmlessly trap birds. When a bird is removed from the net, its leg is fitted with a small metal band, and it is weighed and measured to evaluate its condition. Each band has a unique number on it so that if the bird is recaptured or found later, scientists will know when and where it was banded.
Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory conducts banding at six stations each fall in Colorado and Nebraska and at two Colorado stations each spring. Over the past 20 years, RMBO has banded more than 77,000 birds.
Banding stations also serve as living outdoor classrooms to enhance the public’s appreciation of our feathered friends. The stations provide valuable opportunities for volunteers and students to gain experience in scientific field techniques. Teachers and organized group leaders can arrange a visit for groups of students (see details under each station below), and individual visitors are welcome.
Colorado Banding Stations:
Near the Audubon Center on the southwest side of Chatfield State Park in Littleton, CO. Registration is not required for individuals. Schedule classroom visits and field trips at: education@denveraudubon.org or 303-973-9530. www.denveraudubon.org.
- Chico Banding Station (September and April)
At the research station on the Chico Basin Ranch, 35 mi. southeast of Colorado Springs. Reservations required. Contact Lee Derr at: learning@chicobasinranch.com or 719-634-2305 or 719-338-8651. www.chicobasinranch.com.
- Ela Wildlife Sanctuary (September - mid October)
Located in Grand Junction Colorado. Contact Cary Atwood at catwood814@gmail.com to schedule a program.
- Ridgway State Park (September)
Located near Ridgway Colorado. Contact Arlene Crawford at ourayoutpost918@hotmail.com to schedule a program.
Nebraska Banding Stations:
- Chadron State Park (September - early October)
Located at Chadron State Park in Chadron Nebraska. Contact Maggie Vinson at magdalena.vinson@rmbo.org or 308.220.0052.
- Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area (September - early October)
Contact Maggie Vinson at magdalena.vinson@rmbo.org or 308-220-0052 to schedule a banding program.
Visit our Nebraska Education Programs page for more information on Nebraska banding stations.
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Colorado Banding Station Contact:
Kacie Ehrenberger
Education and Outreach Director
303-659-4348 ext 15
Nebraska Banding Station Contact:
Magdalena Vinson
Nebraska Education Coordinator
magdalena.vinson@rmbo.org
308-220-0052
 (Chipping Sparrow up close, photo by Anne James)
(School children releasing a bird at Barr Lake State Park)
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