OWL BANDING
The first project of its kind in the Western US, the banding of migratory forest owls, primarily Flammulated and Northern Saw-whet Owls, has been conducted at Lucky Peak since 1999. Exploratory efforts and methods varied slightly during 1999-2000, but a standardized yearly protocol was established during fall 2001. In each year, owl banding has occurred at two stations from August 28- October 28, and nets are opened 30 min after sunset and closed 30 min before sunrise. To attract owls into mist nets, at each station we use an audio lure consisting of a compact disc player and remote speakers that broadcast “hooting” calls to attract Flammulated Owls and “solicitation” calls to attract Northern Saw-whet Owls into stations.
Over the course of the owl study, annual capture numbers have varied dramatically (75 to 902 owls captured in any given season), and we have captured a total of 127 Flammulated Owls and 1498 Northern Saw-whet Owls. This research program has also provided opportunities for several graduate students, and publications are beginning to appear.
The first project of its kind in the Western US, the banding of migratory forest owls, primarily Flammulated and Northern Saw-whet Owls, has been conducted at Lucky Peak since 1999. Exploratory efforts and methods varied slightly during 1999-2000, but a standardized yearly protocol was established during fall 2001. In each year, owl banding has occurred at two stations from August 28- October 28, and nets are opened 30 min after sunset and closed 30 min before sunrise. To attract owls into mist nets, at each station we use an audio lure consisting of a compact disc player and remote speakers that broadcast “hooting” calls to attract Flammulated Owls and “solicitation” calls to attract Northern Saw-whet Owls into stations.
Over the course of the owl study, annual capture numbers have varied dramatically (75 to 902 owls captured in any given season), and we have captured a total of 127 Flammulated Owls and 1498 Northern Saw-whet Owls. This research program has also provided opportunities for several graduate students, and publications are beginning to appear.
