Bluebill Banding 2014... (Rekindling an old post...)

I would like to know the overall heath of the birds. Do these birds have good fat reserves that could be an indicator food supply from this cold winter?
 
In the picture of Mr. Afton holding the two buffies, it appears the one in his right hand is actually an immature drake, the bill is blue tinted as opposed to the one in his right hand, which is brown colored. Great work with all those bands going out.
t.
 
Dennis - We don't measure their body fat. We take their weight and estimate the amount of corn in their crop.

Kevin - You are correct, that is an immature drake.
 
Great thread Pat. Thanks for sharing it with us. If anyone takes up the project in future years please let me know I would really like the kids to experience some of the work that goes into preserving our natural world while they are young enough for it to leave an impression. I would gladly drive down for a weekend.
 
I realize this is a old thread but I was looking through old threads and found this one. I've shot 4-5 ducks over the years that came back as Dr. Afton ducks. Its neat to see how they got their bands. Thanks for posting the pics and info.
 
Am resurrecting this old post for many of the new forum members to see. With Doc's retirement, we took this year off from banding scaup. Word is Western Illinois University is going to take over this good work...
 
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