17/04/2026
We are excited to announce another Bird Banding Training at Un poco del Chocó!!!
In the scope of the long-term monitoring of the bird communities in the nature reserve and its surroundings Un poco del Chocó-Nature Reserve & Biological Station offers bird banding training both to beginners and advanced banders. Our 10-day intensive course is designed for only a small number of participants which allows us to customize our training to the needs of the participants, depending on prior knowledge and skills. Individuals who are new to bird banding will learn the basics of scientific bird banding and avian monitoring techniques, while those who already possess some banding skills will be able to advance their comprehension of molt strategies, ageing and sexing techniques of birds in the hand.
The course will start with an introduction to avian monitoring techniques and scientific bird banding. Participants will learn how to install, open, and close mist nets.
On the following banding days participants will learn how to set up and monitor mistnets, extract birds from nets, they will assist in the banding process (band and measure birds) and record data. Several classroom style lectures will be given on ethical bird banding, bird safety, operation of a banding station, ageing and sexing techniques and molt analysis.
The costs for the course are 1250 US$ and include three meals per day & lodging in dormitory-style rooms at the biological station, all equipment, and taxes. Furthermore the proceeds of our course help us finance our research projects, conservation work and scholarships for Ecuadorian students!
Course dates
June 03 – 12, 2026
Application deadline
May 4
Payment deadline
May 15
Scholarships
Depending on the number of participants we will be able to provide discounted rates for Ecuadorian students. Successful scholarship applicants should be proficient in English and detail how this course is relevant to their future career.
Visit our website for more information!!
https://www.unpocodelchoco.com/birdbanding-course
