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How do I Report Bird Bands?

Many birds are banded for identification purposes or as part of population and migration studies. Most wild birds found with bands will have been banded with what's termed a federal band. However, there are many other types of bands depending on the type of bird. If you have found a banded bird or just spotted the bird with a band while birdwatching, reporting that band number and location seen can give researchers important information. In some cases it may help an owner find a lost bird.

Instructions

- 1
  Identify which type of the band the bird is wearing. U.S. federal and Canadian bands are silver with a series of eight or nine numbers. The band will also include "MD," "WASH DC" and/or the phone number 1-800-327-BAND. Foreign bands from migratory birds will have foreign words and addresses. Pigeon bands will be aluminum covered with colored plastic. Falconry bands on raptors may be plastic or solid metal with a letter and five or six numbers. State bands will have the name of the state on the band.
- 2
  Write down all of the information you find on the band. This includes the identification number and any phone numbers.
- 3
  Call the number on the band to report the band if the band has a phone number.
- 4
  Report federal and foreign bands by calling 1-800-327-BAND or by going to the ReportBand.gov. After reporting these bands, you may be given information about the bird's history such as banding date and location.
- 5
  Report pigeon bands to the appropriate association. If the band has an "AU," report the band to the American Racing Pigeon Union at 405-848-5801. If the band has an "IF," report the band to the International Federation by calling 732-788-0016 or 727-364-7554. If the band has a "C.U.," then report the band to the Canadian Racing Pigeon Union by calling 866-652-5704.
- 6
  Contact the labeled state fish and game or fish and wildlife department if you have found a raptor with a falconry band. State game departments regulate and record falconry bands.

Animals & Science