Large Numbered Leg Bands for Individual Identification of Swans

Leg bands for swans were made of laminated polyvinyl chloride (PVC) with individual letter and number codes engraved on them to give individual recognition in the field. The details of design and manufacture are described. Over 1,000 mute swans (Cygnus olor) and 270 Bewick's swans (C. colt4mbianus bewickii) have been marked with such bands in England since November 1967. Additionally, 1,400 bands were supplied for use on whistling swans (C. c. columbianus) in North America. Banded BewickXs swans have been identified in many localities including the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany. Forty-one of 50 banded young mute swans were readily identified out of a flock of 4S0 birds the year after banding. Further developments as neck collars for swans or as leg bands for geese are possible. LEG BANDS FOR SWANS * Ogilvie 1261 This sucoess has been partially the result of deep well pumps at the trap sites. In freezing weather, which would normally stop trapping, these pumps can deliver some 800 gallons per minute of 50 F water into the immediate vicinity of the traps. The open water measurably increased success. The figures in Table 1 do not indicate the maximum efficiency of the trap but include species captured to meet banding quotas and research needs. Maximum rates of capture were realized in l9S8 when 28,000 mallards were banded in a 2-month period. An average trap night would yield approximately 300 geese or 500 ducks per trap.