Banded bird seen or found: record the marker and submit the scientific report
Read the band without capturing a live bird, record species, place, date and condition, then report the marker to the North American program.
Do not chase, capture or handle a live bird to read its band. An injured animal should be referred to wildlife authorities or an authorized rehabilitator.
Observe from a distance
Use binoculars or zoom and look at both legs. Record colour, material, letters, numbers and sequence even if part is unreadable.
Document the context
Record date, time, coordinates or precise place, likely species, live or dead condition, behaviour and recovery circumstances. Take photos without disturbing the bird.
Handle a recovered band
If the bird is dead and handling is lawful and safe, keep the band or reproduce its inscription as instructed. Follow rules for protected species.
Submit the report
Use reportband.gov or the official phone number. The response certificate generally provides species, banding date and place, age and bander information.
How to report a banded bird — ECCC