While writing the last entry, I realized that I had never really described the process of trapping, measuring, and releasing a pelican. Here's how it works:
Step 4- Band the bird. The bands we use are made by the U.S. Geological Survey's Bird Banding Lab and provide a unique 9-digit number that will help identify the bird if it's ever found again, alive or dead.
From capture to release, the process usually takes us 15-20 minutes. Once released, tagged pelicans usually spend time away from the nest preening to restore the waterproofing of their feathers, but typically return to their nests within a few hours.
From capture to release, the process usually takes us 15-20 minutes. Once released, tagged pelicans usually spend time away from the nest preening to restore the waterproofing of their feathers, but typically return to their nests within a few hours.