Dear Birders,

As you scan the mudflats and flooded agricultural fields this fall, be sure
to look for color-marked shorebirds.  Shorebirds are being marked on the
breast feathers as part of an ongoing research project in the southwest
Lake Erie Marsh Region evaluating body mass dynamics and shorebird
movements across the local landscape.

You can help with this project by seeking out color-marked shorebirds
during your birding adventures this fall.  When you are lucky enough to
spot a color-marked shorebird, record information on the color of the
marking, your location, the type of habitat the bird is using, and the
bird’s behavior; report your sighting to Keith Norris ([log in to unmask],
(217)855-6324).  More information, pictures of color-marked shorebirds, 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>
).

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
   - 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.  If you have any questions about our research
or our preliminary findings, please contact Keith Norris ([log in to unmask]
).

Thanks,

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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