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Kestrel Banding

Experience the incredible beauty and power of an American kestrel close up! With Madison Audubon Society and the Central Wisconsin Kestrel Research project, you will get to learn about our kestrel nest box program and how and why biologists band kestrel chicks, and even get to hold a kestrel chick! 

This event is for individuals of all ages. Handling of the birds, while awesome, is not required. We use proven techniques to keep the birds calm during banding, which ensures the birds' safety, as well as yours.

EVENT DETAILS:

There are five time slots available: 

  • Sunday, June 9 — 8am-12pm (raindate: June 10)

  • Monday, June 17 — 8am-12pm (raindate: June 18)

  • Monday, June 17 — 12:30-4:30pm (raindate: June 18)

  • Friday, June 21 — 8am-12pm (raindate: June 22)

  • Friday, June 21 — 12:30-4:30pm (raindate: June 22)

1. Registrants will meet at Goose Pond Sanctuary (W7503 Kampen Road, Arlington - west of the railroad tracks) and will carpool to the 4-6 banding sites. Each site is 5-20 miles apart, so there is substantial driving during this event. Please note that we will leave for the nest box route promptly at 8:00 am so don't be late!

2. We'll be stopping and working along roadsides and in grassland habitat, where bugs and pokey plants reside. Closed shoes, tall socks, and pants are recommended. Please also bring sunscreen and water, as well as a hat, snacks, and bug spray if desired.

Contact Brand Smith (608-444-8952) or Mark Martin (608-333-9645) with questions about the event.

Cover photo by Pat Eagan

Earlier Event: June 5
Rocky Run Oak Savanna SNA
Later Event: June 9
Grassland Birds