The author appreciated the help of several people for their assistance with the development of this protocol document including; David Allinson, Graeme Gibson, Bev Glover, Claudia Riveros, Mike Setterington, Michael Shepard and Rick Toochin. Rod Mitchell is especially thanked for his assistance in the technical preparation of this document.
Michael Shepard and Rhonda Millikin created the initial draft protocol for migration monitoring at Rocky Point in 1994. This current protocol version expands upon and further standardizes procedures.
This section records all significant revisions made to the RPBO monitoring protocol. All significant changes must be noted in this section, and the version number on the title page and within the footer must be revised to reflect the new version number. The RPBO program co-ordinator will provide the latest revised protocol.
| Version | Date of Revision | Major Changes |
| 1.0 | November 1999 | Initial review draft prepared by Daniel Derbyshire |
| 1.1 | 20 February, 2000 | Grammar, organization. Electronic data entry section added. Priority species revised to reflect most recent CMMN agreement. |
| 1.2 | 1 August, 2000 | Procedural revisions and grammar by Daniel Derbyshire |
| 1.3 | December 2000 | Procedural revisions by Daniel Derbyshire |
| 1.4 | April, 2003 | Clarification and procedural revisions by the RPBO Board |
| 1.41 | October, 2004 | Revision of Census Time |
| 1.42 | August, 2005. | Revision of Census Time |
1. INTRODUCTION
2. PERSONNEL
5. CENSUS
6. BANDING DATA PROCEDURES: STANDARD AND NON-STANDARD
7. BACK NETS
9. KNOWN STOPOVER AND RESIDENTS (KSR)
10. SEAWATCH
11. ESTIMATED TOTALS (ET) AND DAILY SPECIES TOTALS (DST)
12. COVERAGE CODES
13. THE DAILY LOG
14. WEATHER DATA
16. SITE ACCESS: REGULATIONS AND OBLIGATIONS
17. BANDING: ETHICS AND TRAINING PROCEDURES
19. REFERENCES
Table 1. Priority list for migration monitoring at Rocky Point Bird Observatory.
Table 2. Daily monitoring schedule example.
Table 3. Observer classification codes.
Table 4. Coverage codes.
Table 5. Beaufort wind scales.
Appendix 1. Rocky Point Bird Observatory count area boundaries.
Appendix 2. Rocky Point Bird Observatory mist net locations.
Appendix 3. Example of a Rocky Point Bird Observatory banding data sheet.
Appendix 4. Example of a Rocky Point Bird Observatory Daily Estimated Totals (ET) form.
Appendix 5. Example of a Rocky Point Bird Observatory Daily Log.
1. INTRODUCTION
This protocol is intended to outline field procedures for migration monitoring at Rocky Point Bird Observatory (RPBO). This document is required for the purpose of ensuring that field procedures at RPBO are understood and adhered to in a consistent or standardized fashion by volunteers and staff.
Any future changes to this protocol must be fully recorded in order for any potentially negative effects of this to be considered at later analysis stages.
Rocky Point Bird Observatory is located on Canadian Forces Ammunitions Depot (CFAD) Department of National Defense (DND) lands to the southwest of Victoria, B.C. on the Strait of Juan De Fuca. The habitat consists of old growth Douglas and Grand fir stands, tidal flats, endangered Garry Oak forests, open meadow and riparian habitats. Lying at the extreme southern tip of Vancouver Island, Rocky Point concentrates migrant passerines, raptors, and seabirds. The most common species banded during fall migration include: Wilson’s Warbler, Pacific-slope Flycatcher, Orange-crowned Warbler, Lincoln’s Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow and Ruby-crowned Kinglet. As of the fall of 2002, 278 bird species had been recorded, over 87 of which are suspected of breeding on the site. The potential for bird studies at this site is considerable. Rocky Point is particularly suited for migration monitoring since human disturbance is minimal.
Fieldwork described in the protocol is conducted at RPBO to monitor populations of passerines migrating along the west coast during the fall. The RPBO serves a broader purpose as a member of the national Canadian Migration Monitoring Network (CMMN) managed by Bird Studies Canada (BSC). One objective of RPBO is to gather quality, standardized data on west coast migrating birds for the purpose of attaining population indices.
Priority species for migration monitoring at RPBO are listed in Table 1.
2. PERSONNEL
Daily migration monitoring at RPBO is to be conducted by at least three experienced people. At least one of those persons must be a licensed and experienced bander and birder who acts as the bander in charge (BIC) on a daily basis. The BIC is ultimately responsible for ensuring that all aspects of fieldwork are completed in a manner which agrees with this document. However, all personnel participating in the fieldwork are expected to read this protocol. Safe and efficient field work is the daily goal and is achieved when skilled individuals are on hand to assist the BIC. A second individual must be an experienced birder that is capable of identifying and counting all birds while conducting the 90 minute long census route (described below). A third skilled individual is required to assist with bird extraction and/or bird banding.
On occasions when there is a lack of skilled staff on hand, the daily program is to be scaled down as fitting. Conducting the daily census is priority, while banding and general observations are 2nd and 3rd priorities, respectively.
Table 1. Priority list for migration monitoring at Rocky Point Bird Observatory.1
| A. Species with <50% of North American (Canada and US only) breeding range covered by Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) and <60% of winter range in US-Canada | ||
| American Pipit | Orange-crowned Warbler | Swainson’s Thrush |
| Lincoln’s Sparrow | Savannah Sparrow | Wilson’s Warbler |
| B. Species with <50% of North American breeding range covered by BBS, but >60% of winter range in US-Canada. | ||
| Dark-eyed Junco | Golden-crowned Sparrow | White-crowned Sparrow |
| Fox Sparrow | Ruby-crowned Kinglet | Yellow-rumped Warbler |
| Lapland Longspur | Varied Thrush | |
| C. Species with <60% of their Canadian-Alaskan breeding range (but 50% of North American range) covered by BBS, and <60% of winter range in US-Canada. | ||
| Bank Swallow | Cliff Swallow | Violet-green Swallow |
| Barn Swallow | Common Nighthawk | Warbling Vireo |
| Black-throated Gray Warbler | Common Yellowthroat | Western Tanager |
| Cassin's Vireo | Olive-sided Flycatcher | Western Wood Pewee |
| Chipping Sparrow | Townsend's Warbler | Yellow Warbler |
| D. Species with <60% of their Canadian-Alaskan breeding range (but >50% of North American range) covered by BBS, but >60% of their winter range in US-Canada (includes some irruptive species and irregular migrants). | ||
| American Robin | Golden-crowned Kinglet | Pine Siskin |
| Belted Kingfisher | Hairy Woodpecker | Purple Finch |
| Brown Creeper | Hermit Thrush | Red-breasted Nuthatch |
| Cedar Waxwing | Horned Lark | Red-winged Blackbird |
| Downy Woodpecker | Marsh Wren | Song Sparrow |
| European Starling | Northern Flicker | Winter Wren |
| E. Species with >60% of both their Canadian and North American breeding range covered by BBS, and <60% of their winter range in US-Canada. | ||
| Band-tailed Pigeon | House Wren | Purple Martin |
| Black-headed Grosbeak | Hutton's Vireo | Willow Flycatcher |
| Pacific-slope Flycatcher | Northern Rough-winged Swallow | |
| F. Species with >60% of both their Canadian and North American breeding range covered by BBS, and >60% of their winter range in U.S. and Canada. | ||
| American Goldfinch | Evening Grosbeak | Spotted Towhee |
| Bewick's Wren | House Finch | Western Meadowlark |
| Brown-headed Cowbird | Mourning Dove | |
1 Based on the BSC CMMN priority rankings (1998). This list excludes species rarely observed at Rocky Point.
Individuals who are new to RPBO, with little or no training elsewhere, should approach the bander In charge (BIC) about training procedures. Inexperienced volunteers can expect to read through this protocol, walk the census route, get familiarized with the count area and assist banders through "scribing." The Bander In Charge will delegate responsibilities and tasks based upon the abilities and experience of all personnel available. Volunteers wishing not to participate with banding can still be of great help by making observations, censusing, scribing, and data entry. It is recommended that all volunteers familiarize themselves with the American Ornithologist's Union's (AOU) 4 letter codes for all species likely to be encountered at Rocky Point, as this makes data recording procedures much more efficient.
All decisions made by the BIC are final. Persons not willing to co-operate with the BIC or follow procedures outlined in this protocol or those who act in a manner which may hold RPBO in disfavour with DND should not expect to remain either on site or on the register list at the main guardroom.
The count area refers to the area in which birds may be counted and included in the daily totals. Birds are considered "countable" only if the observer is inside this count zone (regardless of the location of the bird). Therefore, anything visibly or audibly detected by an observer inside the boundaries can be counted. Any miscellaneous observations made outside the zone are still worthy of mention in the narrative on the back of the daily log.
Prior to 2001, given the large size of the count area, there were substantial areas of habitat rarely visited in the standard count period. So, it was determined in 2000 that the area should be scaled back.
In order to reduce the effects of these changes, a smaller count area was designed to include specific areas that are visited most often and that are of significance for concentrations of migrants. Essentially, the new count area is a smaller "loop" around the mistnetting area. The smaller count area was employed starting in fall 2001 for the standard count period only (that is, the 7-hour period beginning a half hour before sunrise). The old count area will be applicable only to the non-standard count period, which commences after the 7-hour period has ended. This will be advantageous in the future for further streamlining of field operations during the migration seasons. Effectively, starting in 2001, RPBO employed standard and non-standard count areas which are applicable to corresponding count periods.
The standard count period begins 30 minutes before dawn at which time the first net is opened (weather permitting) and general observations commence. Nets are run (if possible) for a 6 hour period from the start of net opening. The daily census must begin one hour after sunrise and run for 90 minutes. This "window" for census is significant as suitable light levels and high bird activity generally occurs at this time. Table 2 describes a typical monitoring day.
General observations begin at net opening and continue for the duration of the standard count period. The extended observation period (one hour after net closure) is designed to accommodate further general observations and data recording that are performed after the 6-hour banding period has finished.
Seawatch is a non-standard survey which is conducted only when adequate personnel is available and only after the standard count period has ended. This survey is described in more detail in Section 10.
Table 2. Daily monitoring schedule example for October 8.
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Standard Count Period 650-1250 | |
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Non-Standard Count Period 1250-7:50 | |
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* Note that activities during the non-standard count period are not mandatory. Nor do General Observations have to be continuous for the entire non-standard count period.
Census is conducted on a daily basis, barring extreme weather conditions or military activities. The census route should be conducted for 90 minutes, with the following time intervals to assist keeping this consistent: large Garry oak by banding shack at 0 minutes, 20-25 minutes to Upper ("Teal") Ponds, the T-junction with Perimeter Road at 35 minutes, Cape Calver at 45-50 minutes, Edye Point at 60-65 minutes, Glover Pond at 80-85 minutes, and banding shack at 90 minutes. The route is illustrated in Appendix 1. As mentioned earlier, the census should begin precisely 1 hour after sunrise. Special conditions for which census may be delayed or aborted include: electrical storm, heavy rain, extremely high winds or military activities.
The census person must be a class 1 observer (Table 3). Observer classification is intended to account for variation in skill level of personnel for analysis purposes. The identification percentage refers to all birds encountered, either visually or audibly. New volunteers can assign themselves a code based on the criteria detailed below. Personnel are encouraged to be honest and accurate in assessments of abilities.
Table 3. Observer classification codes.
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Description |
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Can correctly identify 75% of birds or greater at Rocky Point. |
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Can correctly identify 50%-75% of birds at Rocky Point. |
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Can correctly identify <50% of birds at Rocky Point. |
Census observers must record start and finish times as well as all species and their total number on the census route. All birds seen or heard can be counted. Birds may be counted regardless of their location as long as the observer is positioned on the census path. The observer is allowed to stray off the main path to a maximum distance of 10 metres to confirm identification.
The censuser may not use spotting scopes, but must use binoculars and record observations promptly with pencil and notebook. "Pishing" may be used to attract birds on census except when near the mist nets (i.e., < 10 m).
Birds must not be double-counted, so the censuser should make careful observations of bird locations and movements during the census. For example, 3 Evening Grosbeaks observed flying over Upper Ponds and 3 observed flying over Cape Calver are likely the same birds and therefore should be counted only once. The birds found caught in the mist nets are not counted during the census. It is also important that the census not be stopped or delayed to chase down a rare bird! Census takers are encouraged to keep moving and not dwell in any one area for too long. If the observer feels that he or she cannot complete the census in the time allotted then they should abstain.
The standardized daily census targets migrant passerines and therefore water birds should be given less priority. Incidental observations and seawatch can account for these species. Ocean viewing positions at Cape Calver, Edye Point and Building 100 (the boathouse) are good locations for brief scans of water birds during the census.
6. BANDING DATA PROCEDURES: STANDARD AND NON-STANDARD
6.1. STANDARD
RPBO runs 13 mist nets that are located at standard locations (see Appendix 2). Nets are numbered sequentially as 1-13 beginning at 1 from the perimeter road. Nets 1, 2 and 3 closest to the water are frequently closed due to high winds. These nets should be closed for the safety of birds when winds are gusting at 20+ mph or higher.
Mist nets 1-13 operated in the standard count period comprise the standard banding effort (extra nets or traps are not representative). These nets are to be run from a half hour before sunrise for 6 hours comprising the standard banding period. Nets should be set so that the top shelf loop is 3 or 4 inches from the top of the net pole and the lowest shelf string is at knee height. Nets must also be properly furled and tied to close.
Newly caught birds are processed with the following information: age and sex, wing cord, fat deposition, weight, time trapped, band number and bander initials. Appendix 3 shows the banding data sheet and scribing method used at RPBO. Ageing and sexing at Rocky Point is primarily based on Peter Pyle’s An Identification Guide to North American Birds with some usage of North American Banding Techniques. Volunteers with little or no familiarity with these manuals should read the introduction in Pyle, which includes excellent descriptions of moult processes, measurement techniques and sexing criteria.
When time permits, banders should attempt to identify birds to sub-species. Prior banding experience at the site has demonstrated that several forms of a given species (i.e., SOSP) can be encountered (sometimes on the same day!). Banders may use the descriptions in Pyle as an indicator.
It is also recommended that moult cards be filled out when possible in June, July and August. Resident Wilson's Warbler and Common Yellowthroat are instructive examples, as cards have been filled out tracing the entire Pre-basic moult of single individuals.
Banders should be aware of after hatch year (AHY) Pacific Slope Flycatchers with breeding evidence (CP or BP) having 2 or 3 skull classifications and worn out plumage from June-August.
Recaptures are recorded at Rocky Point using the "retrap card" system currently being used by Long Point Bird Observatory. Each recaptured bird has its own corresponding card, which details a recapture history. It is essential that banders and scribes pay close attention to the reading and recording of the band number, as this number is the most important piece of information. Recaptured birds are processed with the same information as newly banded birds. Each day's cards are left loose (i.e. not filed) under "today's recaps" in the front of the filing drawer and are filed according to band number when estimated totals are completed.
Any birds which were captured but managed to escape, or were released, are recorded on the incidental observations clipboard under the heading of "captures unbanded" which is also factored into the ET process (Section 10). The rules pertaining to what is a "capture" and what otherwise is a general observation are: the individual must have handled the bird before escape or release in order to be counted as a capture unbanded. Therefore, birds that were flushed out of a net but were not touched are factored into the general observations category rather than the "captures unbanded" category.
Nets are usually checked every 20-30 minutes. Situations in which birds may be at greater risk of injury mean that nets should be checked more frequently if not closed altogether. Only those individuals authorized by the BIC are allowed to extract birds. Inexperienced personnel must be supervised by the BIC or by a person designated by the BIC at all times during the extraction process. Birds waiting in bags should be safely hung up and not left on the ground!
Nets must not be operated in overly wet conditions (rain, showers, drizzle or heavy fog). Banders should be aware of unusually hot days in which birds may experience heat stress if left in the nets or hanging in bags for to long. Rocky Point is also home to feral cats, raccoons, mink, deer and hawks in migration. Sightings of these potential predators around the nets should be reported to the BIC. As bird welfare is paramount, the BIC should not hesitate to shut down nets if birds are at risk.
Banders should also be aware of the abundance of Rufous Hummingbirds at RPBO. In 1999, field workers extracted over 140 RUHU from the nets. Cold, wet or windy days in July-August mean that nets should be checked more frequently because hummingbirds are very sensitive in the nets. Any RUHU showing signs of torpor can be resuscitated with sugar water (located in storage bins at station), by blowing on the bird, and/or rubbing the throat.
Also, for reasons of bird welfare, RPBO does not allow "wet skulling" if the temperature is at 4 degrees C or below.
While it generally takes 15-20 minutes to close all the nets, personnel should pay close attention to the time each net was opened. Because the nets are set-up in a line as opposed to a loop, there is a 15-20 minute difference in time of opening when one or two people are opening. Therefore, nets 1-5 may have been operated for 5.5 hours while nets 6-13 were open for 6 hours. To avoid this, nets should be opened and closed in the same order.
6.2. NON-STANDARD BANDING
Non-Standard Banding refers to either: a) netting or trapping which occurs after the standard count period or b) for birds caught in non-standard nets and traps during the standard count period. Personnel should avoid attempting to flush or "pish" birds into the nets. Such non-standard situations of capture are recorded on the banding sheets with NSB (Non-Standard Band) in the comments. The daily log and ET sheets have sections where these banded birds can be accounted for.
A completed banding sheet for RPBO is provided in Appendix 3.
In July of 2000, 3 nets were set-up in the "tunnel" area behind net 10, towards the upper ponds. It was determined that these nets had potential for catching large numbers of birds as well as species not commonly encountered by the standard 10 net set-up already in use. These nets were operated in 2000 every other day. This alternate day pattern is intended to account for data fluctuations caused by the introduction of more nets. Therefore, back nets 11,12 and 13 were run on alternate days for the years 2000 and 2001 so that analysis can maintain continuity with previous years.
Any birds caught from these nets in the interim were not recorded as non-standard band but rather were included with the rest of the captures on the banding and ET forms. Starting in 2002, the back nets were run every day with nets 1-10.
It should also be stressed that weather and or numbers of birds present cannot influence decisions regarding opening of these nets on days when they should be closed.
General observations or simply "obs" refers to birds encountered that do not fall under census, seawatch, or banding. The count area still applies to these observations. Further, the general "obs" is an important component for generating estimated totals (ETs). Personnel must pay careful attention to this data, remembering the numbers, location and identifying characteristics of the birds observed. This is necessary for eliminating any overlap during the ET tallying process.
General observations for the standard count period are factored into the ET, while observations after this period (non-standard count period) are allotted to the DST.
General observations are treated as a separate tally from both banding and census and subsequently are recorded without regard for "double counting" possibilities. Rather, the different categories are independent and the ET process attempts to eliminate any overlap.
Volunteers and staff are strongly encouraged to make as many observations as possible depending on daily circumstances. Due to the large area to be covered, it is suggested that personnel pay visits to several key areas. Specific areas of need include the tidal flats (TF), upper ponds (UP), the west meadow (WM), and of course the banding area. Staff and volunteers leaving before ETs are calculated, again must record their observations on paper with reference to species and their total number, location, time and movements of birds (i.e., 1 MGWA @0900 in the Upper Ponds ).
9. KNOWN STOPOVER AND RESIDENTS (KSR)
Known Stopover and Residents (KSR) refers to the portion of the Estimated Total for a given species which are deemed to have been present on the site for more than one day. The purpose of KSR is to allow for migrants to be distinguished from resident birds or birds that are lingering on site. Situations where KSR is determined include: repeats, rarities which linger for longer than a day, birds with distinctive vocal or physical characteristics and birds showing obvious breeding evidence. Recaptures are separated into "repeats", "returns" and "recovery." A repeat is a recapture of an individual that has been encountered recently (up to 3 months prior to the recapture date). A return is a recaptured bird that has not been encountered in over 3 months (e.g. a FOSP banded Oct 99 and recaught Oct 2000). Returns can include recently arrived migrants that were banded the year previous or residents not having been encountered in 3 months or more. Since it is arbitrary and subjective to attempt to determine a migrant Oregon Junco from a resident, all returns are excluded from KSR. Remember that any bird encountered twice in a 3-month period is a KSR. Finally, a recovery is a recapture of a bird originally banded elsewhere. A recovery of course cannot be considered a KSR unless it is captured more than once in 3 months. Personnel must be convinced that a given bird or number of birds has been recorded on previous days in order to call them KSR. When conducting ETs, personnel should tally all "repeats", report any lingering rare birds, birds with undeniable individual characteristics (e.g. unusual song, damaged wing or leg etc.) and birds with pronounced breeding evidence for the KSR column. Determining KSR does not involve guesswork or estimation, concrete evidence must be as criteria.
Seawatch at RPBO is a non-standard sampling method that attempts to account for water bird density, diversity and movements. In no manner are water birds a priority at this station. However, the potential for future projects on seabirds has been shown to be strong by past observational data. Therefore, seawatch is only conducted when circumstances are fitting.
The protocol for the seawatch is as follows: to be conducted for a minimum of a half hour and up to a maximum of 2 hours from either of two standard observation points. Edye Point and Cape Calver are indicated on the site map as the standard seawatch locations. The watch can begin at any time after the standard count period ends with all water birds visible and audible to be counted.
Any unidentifiable birds can be recorded as unidentified gull species or jaeger species for example. Such birds identifiable only to family are recorded on the ET data sheets. However, these tallies are marked in parentheses to ensure that they are not counted as actual species in the summary tables of the log. However, a 1 jaeger species observed on seawatch counts as a species of course when no jaegers were identified to species on that day. This principle applies to census and general observations as well.
11. ESTIMATED TOTALS (ET) AND DAILY SPECIES TOTALS (DST)
Estimated totals are the method deemed valid for migration monitoring by Long Point Bird Observatory and Point Reyes Bird Observatory. Migration Monitoring at Rocky Point hinges upon consistent and efficient ET tabulation for later trend analysis. The ET is derived from census, banding and general observations that occur in the standard count period. (See Table 2) All categories of data are integrated to arrive at the best possible estimate of the number of individuals for each species on a given day. Standardization and maximum effort are key for the ET in order to achieve accurate figures.
The exercise of tabulating ETs firstly involves the entering of banding, recapture and census data. The designated ET co-ordinator is responsible for inviting open discussion and encouraging input from all participants. The general observations total is first deduced by eliminating overlap between observers present (i.e., 1 singing COYE heard by several individuals in the marsh area equals 1, not 3). Banded and recaptured birds are then called out.
The final ET figure accounts for all categories and is delineated by discussion of relevant time, location, behaviour and movement detected by all observers. The ET figure cannot exceed that which has been detected. If the combined total of census, banding, retrap and general observations equals 34, the ET figure cannot be greater than 34. By extrapolation and careful consideration of "double counting", the ET figure will more often be less than the sum total of all categories.
The Daily Species Total (DST) is the final tally of all species and their abundance comprising the standard count period and the non-standard count period. Non-standard mistnetting, seawatch and raptor count (if completed) and afternoon general obs are factored into the DST for an overall summation of the day.
An example of ET and DST calculation for Lincoln’s Sparrow.
Kate reports 3 incidental observations of Lincoln’s Sparrow, Jack 3 and Jeff 2. It is determined that there are only 6 sparrows between all observers (4 from the marsh and 2 at Edye Point). The total for the incidental obs. column is therefore 6. The ET conductor reports 3 banded and 1 retrap as well as 5 on census. While the sum total of all categories is 15, it is then investigated as to whether there were actually 15 or if there is "overlap." Further discussion discloses that all 5 censused birds were in an area not covered by other observers. It is agreed however that the 3 banded and 1 recaptured birds were taken from the marsh area nets which eliminates 4 of the 6 observed. It is presumed then that there were 2 incidentally observed birds that differ from all others. Therefore the breakdown for Lincoln’s Sparrow is 5 from census, 4 from mistnetting and 2 from incidental observations. Therefore the estimated total is 11 (3+1+5+2=11 ).Jack identified 2 Lincoln's Sparrows later in the afternoon, 1 was found in the marsh and was banded while 1 was in the west meadow. It is therefore presumed that the banded bird found in the marsh was already included from the morning while the bird found in the west meadow is likely different. Therefore the daily species total is 12. (11+1=12)
As earlier mentioned, birds identified only to family name are recorded as Gull species, Dowitcher sp. and so on. These ET’d examples are marked in parentheses as Gull sp.= (400) in the ET and/or DST column. This only applies to situations where there were 1 or more species of Gull identified. If there were no species of Gull identified, but there were 10 Gulls of unknown species, then the Gull Sp. row is counted as a species with no parentheses added.
An example of a completed ET and DST sheet is provided in Appendix 4.
A daily coverage code serves the purpose of evaluating the quality of the migration monitoring on a given day and therefore allowing for variability in trend analysis. Note that the coverage codes only apply to the standard count period, and therefore seawatch, and non-standard banding have no influence on the coverage code.
RPBO, as elsewhere, operates with a coding system based on observer classification, number of observers, observer effort, banding effort, census, and ET.
Observer class and observation hours are significant for the calculation of coverage codes.
Table 4. Census area coverage codes
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Criteria |
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No coverage |
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No census or ET. Some obs. or non-standard banding. |
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Census. Possibly some obs. or non-standard banding |
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Census and ET. At least 1 class 1 observer present for 7 hours and some banding (<50% of 6 hour banding period) |
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Census, ETs, at least 2 class 1 observers + 50-100% of standard banding effort. 1 class 1 observer must be present for 7 hours. |
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Census, ETs, at least 3 class 1 observers +100% of standard banding effort. 2 class 1 observers must be present for 7 hours. |
An example of the daily log is provided in Appendix 5. The RPBO log sheet must be completed at the end of each field day. As with ETs and DST’s, data entry is an integral part of migration monitoring. Therefore, it is recommended that volunteers and staff pay close attention to the following items to be included on the log.
The narrative located on the back of the log may include the following:
Weather is recorded at Rocky Point four times daily, at dawn, census, noon, and dusk. The following information is to be measured: temperature, wind direction, Beaufort wind strength (Table 5), visibility, cloud cover, and precipitation as well as any other pertinent weather observations.
Table 5. Beaufort wind and sky condition scales.
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Wind Speed Indicators |
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Smoke rises vertically |
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Wind direction shown by smoke drift |
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Wind felt on face; leaves rustle |
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Leaves and twigs in constant motion |
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Wind raises dust; small branches moving |
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Small trees in leaf begin to sway |
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Large Branches in motion |
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Whole trees in motion |
Precipitation is measured based upon the three simple, descriptive gradients indicating intensity, drizzle, showers or rain. Temperature is recorded in Celsius from temperature gauges at either the banding station or trailer. Cloud Cover is measured as a percentage of cloud vs. clear sky from an open viewing position.
Thorough completion of the data sheets, and electronic entry of all data are considered of equal importance. A designated data manager will co-ordinate data entry and management during the banding season. If there is a computer on-site, the BIC is responsible for data entry of the daily estimated totals. The BIC may also enter some or all of the banding data during the banding season, but this is not a required element.
The banding and recapture data, and the daily estimated totals must be recorded daily on the standard RPBO data sheets, as well as entered in an appropriate electronic format. To avoid costly backlogs of data that have occurred in the past, the banding activity at RPBO must be entered into a computer on an acceptable software program on a regular basis.
The Canadian Bird Banding Office does not accept paper copies of banding schedules. Instead, banding data will only be accepted as entered into the software program Band Manager. If an on-site computer is available, the BIC must ensure that ET data is entered almost daily. To avoid loss of data entry effort, data entered on-site must be backed-up and taken off-site on a weekly basis. If an on-site computer is not available, then provisions must be made for data entry to occur on a regular basis. If there are problems with data entry, or if data entry is delayed for more than one week from when the data was collected, the data manager, must be notified. The person responsible for data management will then make provisions to have the data entered in a timely fashion. A backlog of data entry for more than two weeks of field data is considered unacceptable.
As part of RPBO's agreement with the Canadian Migration Monitoring Network, the Daily Estimated Totals (ET) data must be submitted to Bird Studies Canada on a regular (i.e., seasonal) basis. Data entry for ET's is done using an adapted version of Long Point Bird Observatory's ET program.
16. SITE ACCESS: REGULATIONS AND OBLIGATIONS
The migration monitoring program at Rocky Point is made possible with permission from the Department of National Defence. Being an ammunition depot with restricted access to the public, it is paramount that all personnel associated with RPBO follow some very important guidelines. The future and the quality of work conducted on these grounds hinges upon a consensus among all personnel that access to Rocky Point is a privilege.
Prospective volunteers are required to pre-arrange their visits with the Volunteer Co-ordinator and, if granted permission must sign in at the main guardroom. When leaving the site, individuals must also sign themselves out at the guardroom as well. The gate at the entrance to the site, unless you are otherwise directed by the guardroom, is to be closed at all times. Therefore, make sure to shut the gate behind you on your way in and out of the site.
As a volunteer at RPBO, one has his or her name on the register at the main gate and is granted access to the site. In order to maintain a healthy relationship with DND it is imperative that personnel treat the site with care and respect. Behaviour by RPBO personnel that may hold this relationship in disrepute is unacceptable.
Some guidelines expected of RPBO personnel are as follows:
Those individuals who are registered at the gate are obligated to assist in the migration monitoring program. By no means will people be allowed to come to Rocky Point unscheduled or simply to go birding. It should be emphasized that this program is not simply for recreational birding but rather a scientific project that depends on the hard work and enthusiasm of its volunteer personnel. Migration monitoring is a national initiative working towards the understanding and conservation of birds. ("Twitching" is not acceptable grounds for access to this site!)
17. BANDING: ETHICS AND TRAINING PROCEDURES
As with access to the site, the handling of birds is a privilege not an inherent right! Bird handling, extraction from mist nets and banding are extremely delicate processes that require lengthy training by experienced persons. Therefore, it is necessary for those wanting to get hands on experience to approach the Volunteer Co-ordinator about this before hand. Volunteers wanting training should consult the following station manuals for basic instruction on banding operations; The North American Banders Study Guide, The North American Banders Manual for Passerines and Near Passerines, and Pyle’s Identification Guide to North American Birds. The Bander in Charge is ultimately responsible for bird welfare and a safe banding operation and is the person who will train in these areas of interest. It is essential that any casualties and/or injuries encountered at Rocky Point be recorded on the "Report of Injuries and Deaths".
1. More than anything else, banders are responsible for the safety and welfare of the birds they study. This means that stress and risks of injury or death need to be minimized. Some basic rules are as follows:
2. Banders must continually assess their own work to ensure that it is beyond reproach.
3. Banders must offer honest and constructive assessment of other’s work to maintain the highest standards possible.
4. Banders must ensure that the data gathered are accurate and complete.
5. Banders must obtain permission to band on private property.
If injuries and casualties are occurring frequently (3+ per week), it is imperative that the BIC accept that the banding program is counter productive, should be shut down and re-assessed. Banders must continually observe ethical procedures, and recognize the privilege of handling birds.
Although Rocky Point experiences little human disturbance (relative), habitat is naturally unstable and changes to site composition are inevitable. Any major vegetation changes should be well documented (photographic records of net lines, census route). The netting area has endured some changes (blow down) from winter storms and high west winds. Alders and willows should be kept at a consistent stage of growth relative to net height. Broom and Gorse have undergone substantial fluctuations in differing areas since 1994. As of 1999, these plants should be fully assessed in terms of their density, distribution and height, especially near census route and net lanes. Gorse and Broom should not be eliminated all together but rather maintained and managed so that it is similar to previous years(mainly 99 and 2000).
Alder, Willow and Aspen should be similarly assessed and managed to ensure continuity between years and eliminate any potential bias for the data.
When trimming net lanes and census paths, it should be stressed that a nets and walking paths should be well hidden. Although it is more convenient for personnel to have more room to manoeuvre in the field, it is more important to minimize the impact of people on the vegetation. Therefore, net lanes and census paths should be trimmed back enough to allow individuals to extract birds comfortably and ensure that vegetation blowing in the wind will not damage nets.
Keeping annual written and photographic records of the standard count area, especially the netting area, can monitor such changes. A detailed habitat management plan should be drafted in the near future.
Hussel, David and John Ralph. 1998. Recommended Methods for Monitoring Bird Populations by Counting and Capture of Migrants. Report for the Intensive Sites Technical Committee of the Migration Monitoring Council, 1998.
Murphy, B. 1998. Field Protocol for the Spring Migration Monitoring Program. Innis Point Bird Observatory: 1998. Unpublished document.
Pyle, Peter, S.N.F. Howell, D.F. DeSante, R.P. Yunick and M. Gustafson. 1997. Identification Guide to North American Birds. Slate Creek Press, Bolinas California
Ralph, John et. al. 1999. The Instructors Guide to Training Passerine Bird Banders in North America. The North American Banding Council: Publications Committee, May 1999.
Ralph, John et.al. 1999. The North American Banders Study Guide. North American Banding Council: Publications Committee, May 1999.
Appendix 1. Rocky Point Bird Observatory
census area boundaries. 
Appendix 2. Rocky Point Bird Observatory mist net locations.
Appendix 3. Example of a Rocky Point Bird Observatory banding data sheet.
Appendix 4. Example of a Rocky Point Bird Observatory Daily Estimated Totals (ET) form.
Appendix 5. Example of a Rocky Point Bird Observatory Daily Log.
Daily Log page 2
Copyright 2008, Rocky Point Bird Observatory.