Beginning Bird Banding Workshop

Discover the Art and Science of Bird Banding: A Seven-Day Course for Adults

Open to participants ages 18 and older, this immersive, seven-day introductory course at Wolf Ridge in Finland, MN, is designed to equip both amateur birders and professional biologists with the essential skills for contributing to bird conservation and research through banding programs. Whether you’re looking to enhance your career or deepen a passion for birding, this hands-on experience provides a rare opportunity to connect with nature and advance your knowledge.

Participants will stay at the scenic Wolf Ridge campus, where lodging and meals are provided—allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience.

Hands-On Training Includes:

• Safe operation of mist-nets and gentle bird extraction techniques
• Proper bird-handling skills
• In-hand aging and sexing of birds
• Accurately recording data using the MAPS protocol and forms

Lectures and Discussions Will Explore:

• Ethical considerations in bird banding
• Avian life histories, energetics, molting patterns, and plumage variation
• The permitting process for bird banding
• How banding contributes to avian research and long-term monitoring

Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a biologist seeking new skills, this course will deepen your understanding of avian species while contributing to important conservation efforts.