Migration Monitoring

Migration monitoring aims to investigate the post-natal dispersal of young owls and monitor the number of owls passing through a certain area. Since 2021, we have operated in three different locations, setting up two to three nets starting from September and continuing through October. We use the male vocalization of a saw-whet owl as an audio lure, and we band each captured owl with a standard butt-end leg band issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada. We also collect measurements and information regarding the age, weight, and molt of each bird prior to release. Additionally, we use these banding operations to raise awareness and offer opportunities for the general public to witness our research and conservation efforts.

Highlights so far...

For a total of 43 evenings (11-14 nights each year), we have captured 133 owls and educated approximately 200 visitors.
One female owl captured during migration monitoring at Lady Flower Gardens returned the following year to occupy one of our nest boxes near the banding station.
We recaptured an owl banded in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, approximately 500 km East of Lady Flower Gardens.
One of our birds was recaptured at the Mackenzie Bird Observatory, British Columbia, travelling 650 km, in a Northwest direction.