Dear Birders,

Research will continue this year on shorebirds migrating through the
southwest Lake Erie Marsh Region and you have the opportunity to be
involved!

This research will collect valuable information which will be used to
improve habitat management strategies for this important stopover area.
Your help is needed to ensure this project is successful in collecting the
greatest amount of information possible.

As part of the project, researchers will be capturing and color-marking
shorebirds on their breast feathers. The color-marking is a temporary
marking which enables information to be collected on the movements and
habitats used by the migrating birds.

You can help with this project by seeking out color-marked shorebirds
during your birding adventures this spring. When you are lucky enough to
spot a marked bird, record information on the colors of the markings, the
location, the type of habitat, the species sighted, and the bird’s
behavior; report your sighting to Keith Norris ([log in to unmask],
(217)855-6324). More information, pictures of marked birds, and a
convenient data sheet are available on the Black Swamp Bird Observatory's
website (Click Here<http://www.bsbobird.org/pdf/Shorebird_Migration_Research_Form.pdf>
).

When you see one of these color-marked birds, take comfort in knowing that
bird is contributing to the conservation of shorebird habitat and our
understanding of shorebird migration ecology. And don’t forget to send in
your sighting!

The color-marking operation is one aspect of a larger research project.
This entire study will provide insights on:

· Body mass dynamics of migrating shorebirds
· Food and habitat resources available for migrating shorebirds in the
southwest Lake Erie Marsh Region
· Local shorebird movements and stopover duration


The results of this research will be used to improve the “Shorebird Habitat
Conservation Strategy” developed by the Upper Mississippi River & Great
Lakes Region Joint Venture.


Happy birding,

Keith

--
Keith A. Norris
Graduate Associate
School of Environment & Natural Resources
The Ohio State University
Project Website <http://twel.osu.edu/projects/Norris.html>
[log in to unmask]
217.855.6324

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