Bird Banding Volunteers

*Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to see if any days are currently open for Birds Banding! Banders are not guaranteed a position until they get through a training period.

Purpose

Bird Banding is one of the oldest wildlife monitoring techniques still in practice today because it provides long-term population and movement data for birds migrating across North America. For the process, large mist-nets are set-up in distinct areas. As birds fly through the area, they get caught in an ultra-fine net. This does not hurt the bird, but it certainly doesn't make them happy. After the birds are caught, they are quickly extracted from the net, fit with a unique, identifying aluminum band, measured for a variety of characteristics, and set free to continue with their birdy lives.

Key Responsibilities

• Transporting equipment to and from netting sites
• Set-up and take-down of mist nets
• Data recording and management, and bird banding.
• Potentially some educational outreach for the public!

Direct Supervisor

Maya Pendleton, Ecologist; (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) or 801-621-7595

Length of Appointment

Due to the level of training required, you must be able to commit to a period of at least six months.

Time Commitment

Once or twice per week, 4-5 hours each time. Set-up and take-down times vary as the season changes with an earlier start time in the summer, ~6:30, to beat the heat. These start times will happen later as the seasons and sunrise change.

Qualifications

• Must be over the age of 18
• Must pass a background check
• Must be dependable—you are working with live animals and it is important to make sure they are cared for. This requires a large amount of responsibility and dedication. 
• Must be respectful to animals, staff, visitors, and other volunteers. 
• Willing to get dirty and have fun!
• Previous experience working with birds is preferred!

Support

Bird Banders will receive job-specific training with their direct supervisor.

Benefits

Get to work with our winged friends

• Invitation to volunteer recognition events 
• Invitation to activities just for volunteers
• Rewards for number of hours of service completed (see volunteer handbook)
• Gain new skills and work with a great team of staff and volunteers
• Make a difference and have a positive impact on the community!