22 June 2018
This morning, the 1,000th banding of a bird at SpruceHaven took place, an auspicious event indeed.
No. 1,000 was a ten-day old baby Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica), from nest number 28, one of five healthy young in that nest, and it now bears the band number 2631 97104.
It seemed especially appropriate that Heather, having her first session banding nestlings (under Kevin's careful supervision), was able to get a day off work to permit her to do this. As we all expected she handled it like the true pro she is.
Sandy got up early to witness the event and here is a picture memorializing the occasion.
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| Kevin, Heather, Sandy
We have enjoyed a remarkable period of success at SpruceHaven and it sometimes is hard to believe that we have only been involved in this venture for two and a half years.
Our thanks go out to Dave Westfall, and Jamie and Sandy Hill; without their consent nothing could take place. Kevin Grundy, our master bander continues to inspire us all with his professionalism, dedication and consummate skill, to say nothing of his depth of knowledge about birds and his ability to age and sex species often without referring to the text.
I know that he has been an inspiration and a fine mentor to Heather and Daina. Unfortunately, Daina was unable to be with us today (she is out of town doing field work) but she was with us in spirit and we acknowledge the wonderful contribution she has made to everything we do.
A morning spent with Kevin, Heather and Daina is a delectable experience, the likes of which few people get to enjoy. I am lucky that I get to do it all the time.
Josh Shea has been out to help us several times and we acknowledge his good humour, helpful manner and willingness to pitch in and assist where needed.
Debbie Hernandez is the newest member of our group and comes out to learn whenever she gets a chance.
Ross Dickson has always been willing to help when called on and provided yeoman service filling in for Kevin when he had the nerve to take a vacation during banding season!
This year, for the first time, David Lamble and Merri-Lee Metzger operated the nets on a couple of occasions mid week when others were working.
Before returning No. 2631 97104 we took a couple of final pictures.
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May he/she return to SpruceHaven next spring and have a long and fruitful life thereafter. He/she has already brought much joy to OUR lives.
