[mou] Banded Semi-palmated Sandpipers

[Doug Buri]

Over this last weekend at my shorebird workshop, we were lucky enough to find -- not one but two Semi-palmated Sandpipers that were banded. The first was found by Sharon Stitler at the end of "Ducking Banding" road on Big Stone NWR and the second was found by Jim Amundson at "Buffalo Pond" on the east end of the auto tour road on Big Stone NWR.

I have been involved in a long term research project in the area centered on the refuge that over the years has resulted in a large number of shorebirds being captured and banded. Nate Thomas is the doctoral candidate doing this research now; he sent this information about these birds. 

The first bird was banded about 2 miles south of Salt Lake on the MN / SD border on July 21-23 2004.

The second bird was banded in one of three local spots in the late summer of 2003 or 2005.

Just think of the miles these guys have put on making round trips back and forth from the Arctic to South America. What are the chances that after all these years and miles they would end up back here AND that we would find them!!

We would like to hear from anyone who comes across a banded shorebird. Please note the color, position, and which leg you see bands. The birds also have a "flag" on one of the legs which makes it easier to pick out.

At the workshop we had lots of good close ( < 10 feet) looks at all of the "usual suspects". The most welcome species was Buff-breasted Sandpiper. Habitat is severely limited this year due to lots of cattail growth, but the few good spots are really good.

Doug Buri
Milbank, South Dakota
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