The Intermountain Bird Observatory is hosting an “intensive” field techniques workshop from September 17-20, 2019. We developed the introductory workshop for folks with little to no raptor experience and our objective is to introduce you to several common techniques used in many raptor-related field jobs. Anyone is welcome to attend: professionals, students, birders, and anybody interested in learning more about raptor field techniques.
September is a peak time in southern Idaho for raptor migration and the workshop will be held at our Lucky Peak research station, near Boise, Idaho which supports one of the largest fall raptor migrations in the west. IBO has counted and banded raptors at this location for 25 years. Topics we will cover include: safe handling of live raptors, introduction to banding techniques, ageing and sexing, taking measurements, properly caring for lure birds, recording accurate data, common capture techniques at migration stations (bow net, dho gaza, mist net), techniques for road trapping (Bal-chatri), breeding season techniques (tree climbing using harnesses and other gear), long-distance raptor identification by flight style and shape (hawk watch techniques), and an introduction to nocturnal owl banding (Northern Saw-whet and Flammulated) for those that can stay awake!
The workshop fee is $500 and is taught by raptor biologists certified as trainers by the North American Banding Council. Enrollment is limited to 8 people. Participants should not expect to become certified banders as part of this introductory workshop, but you will be awarded a certificate of completion to add to your resume. We have no control over the weather, so this workshop will happen rain or shine. Mother Nature is in charge with how many birds we catch. Free camping at our research station is available for the nights of the 17th-19th only (must depart Sept 20th after workshop ends). Contact jessicapollock@boisestate.edu with any questions.
Disclaimer – we may cancel the workshop if not enough people register. Refunds – we can refund your money fully if you cancel before August 18. After August 18, we cannot offer a refund. Workshops happen rain or shine.