During the summer, we study breeding species at our site, collecting data on key demographic factors like productivity, recruitment, and survival. These vital rates help scientists identify the most critical life stages influencing population changes. Understanding these patterns allows conservation efforts to be more effective, ensuring resources are directed where they are needed most.
Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship (MAPS)
The MAPS protocol from the Institute for Bird Populations, is a continent-wide network with two key objectives:
- Identify causes of population declines, if any.
- Develop habitat management actions and conservation strategies to reverse declines.
At MBO, our MAPS program operates nine mist nets around the southern end of the pond. Banding occurs every ten days from June 1 to July 31.
Banding total in 2024 : 125 birds
Banding total since 2005 :
Nestling
Banding at nests, primarily targeting juveniles in nest boxes—along with some adults—has largely been opportunistic, with results reflecting effort rather than actual nesting numbers.
Thanks to the dedication of Pascal Berthelot, one of our incredible volunteers, we now have an extensive network of nest boxes on-site:
- 32 nest boxes for Tree Swallow, Eastern Bluebird, and House Wren.
- 9 nest boxes for Wood Duck.
Banding total in 2024: 200?
Banding total since 2005 : 500?
Nest Box Results
Hatchlings banded on site since 2005
Species | 2005 – 2009 | 2010 – 2014 | 2015 – 2019 | 2020 – 2024 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Tree Swallow | 1,200 | 1,200 | 1,200 | 1,200 |
House Wren | 540 | 540 | 540 | 540 |
Eastern Bluebird | 1,600 | 1,600 | 1,600 | 1,600 |
Praesent finibus | 620 | 620 | 620 | 620 |
MAPS Results
Birds banded on site during MAPS protocol since 2005
Species | 2005 – 2009 | 2010 – 2014 | 2015 – 2019 | 2020 – 2024 |
---|---|---|---|---|
Tree Swallow | 1,200 | 1,200 | 1,200 | 1,200 |
House Wren | 540 | 540 | 540 | 540 |
Eastern Bluebird | 1,600 | 1,600 | 1,600 | 1,600 |
Praesent finibus | 620 | 620 | 620 | 620 |
Program
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