Zoo Tuesday 27 May - Some old birds

Ros, Angelina, and I had a busy morning at the Zoo this morning.  We were joined by Emma and Shannan from Dept. of Conservation who are making a training video on mist netting. So as well as handling a good number of birds we were part actors in their activities; hopefully the birds will play the main roles.

We caught 40 birds of 5 species with 28 new and 12 recaptures. The highlight (other than Angelina's delicious cake) would have to be catching 3 birds over 5 years from banding. A Silvereye at 1844 days (just made it) another at 2568 days and a Starling at 2236 days from banding.

Angelina and Ros enjoying cake and coffee (the camera man was also well provided for)
The Zoo Café make great coffee

Species caught were - (recaps in brackets)
Blackbird - 3 (1) the recap was banded July 2011
Greenfinch - 0 (1) it was banded Nov 2011
House Sparrow - 10 (3)
Silvereye - 15 (6) The oldest recap banded June 2007 and another May 2009

Three of the Silvereyes about to be released

The oldest bird of the day, still looking fit for a few more years hopefully.

Starling - 0 (1) banded April 2008, we ave only caught 3 Starling at the Zoo this year all have been recaps and reasonably old birds.