Dr. John Cavitt and students from the Avian Ecology Lab at Weber State University (WSU) have been helping to monitor nest success of several species including American avocets, black-necked stilts, and snowy plovers. Monitoring can involve trapping or netting birds, banding adults and chicks, and checking nests regularly.

Birds are banded with both silver, uniquely numbered bands as well as with several color bands which help identify the birds while being re-sighted in the field. Banding information helps researchers and the Refuge learn about population changes, habitat preference, sight fidelty and more. Chicks are also banded to help learn about fledgling success and predatory or other mortality incidents. 

To learn more about WSU's projects and the Avian Ecology Lab, visit the Avian Ecology Lab's website.