Glacier National Park - Science Friday - Loon Banding

In this episode of Science Friday, the focus is on the conservation efforts for common loons in Montana. The host meets with wildlife biologists Jamie Belt and Chris Hammond to discuss their collaborative project on loon banding. The video covers the importance of bird banding for tracking loon populations, the challenges faced in loon conservation, and the techniques used for trapping and studying these birds. The episode provides insights into the fieldwork and data collection methods employed to ensure the survival and management of loon populations.

What is the main purpose of banding common loons?

• To change the color of their feathers

• To help loons fly better

• To identify individual loons for tracking

• To make loons more attractive

Why are common loons considered a species of special concern in Montana?

• They are dangerous to other wildlife

• Their population requires constant management

• They are not native to the area

• Their population is rapidly increasing

What is the role of the common Loon working group?

• To increase the loon population rapidly

• To relocate loons to other states

• To train loons for performances

• To study the entire population of loons

What is unique about the lifespan of common loons compared to other birds like mallards or geese?

• They migrate more frequently

• They live for a much shorter time

• They can live over 30 years

• They have more offspring each year

What method is used at night to capture loons for banding?

• Using a decoy and playing calls

• Using a spotlight and playing calls

• Setting up traps on land

• Using a net during the day

What information can be obtained from the feathers of a loon?

• The bird's age

• The bird's migration pattern

• The bird's diet

• The mercury level when the feather was grown

Why is blood collected from loons during the banding process?

• To check for diseases

• To determine short-term mercury levels

• To identify the bird's species

• To improve their health