Bosque- Duck banding and testing

[labmansid]

While driving around Bosque last Wednesday, we happened to see some U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service vehicles parked just off one of the main roads with some activity going on around them. We could tell there were some coops with what appeared to be wild ducks in them scattered around. We politely asked if we could observe, and were told that would be OK if we would wait a few minutes until they finished a critical phase they were in the middle of performing, which happened to be drawing some blood samples. We had missed seeing them capture the wild ducks with a rocket powered net. However, we were thrilled to be allowed to witness them banding, measuring/weighing, and swabbing these wild creatures.

First they would place a metal band on the duck's leg and record the number.







Then the bird's age was determined using clues from the wing, and weighed.




Next the ducks are swabbed to test for diseases, particularly avian flu. First a swab is collected from the anus.





Then a sample is collected from their throat. Fortunately for the duck, they do use a separate swab for this step!





Finally, the ducks are released back into the wild sporting their new "bling".








We were impressed with the care with which the ducks were handled. It was obvious the people involved had a deep respect for their captives, trying to minimize any trauma to the wild creatures.






Thanks for looking!

[lhdvies]

Very interesting series-Thks.

[corralup]

That is one cool post. Just the other day I found a banded Northern Mockingbird. Got a picture of it too!

[sandboa]

That first shot of the wigeon being released is outstanding. Pity about the cars in the background, but still a great capture.

Very interesting series.

[mjdmike]

Nice series, something I've never seen. I agree, love the wigeon.

[Patticake]

Very interesting and informative......nice shots!!!

Patti

[labmansid]

It was a very interesting experience for us, especially since I work in a laboratory setting. These people seemed to enjoy what they were doing, and were fun to hang around with. Thanks for looking.