MDC welcomes participants in dove banding project

Program at Reed Memorial Wildlife Area part of long-term scientific studies

The range of the Mourning Dove (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Kansas City, Mo. – The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is offering the public a chance to participate in research on mourning dove populations. Each summer, MDC employees trap doves and affix small identification bands. The doves are then released back into the wild. Band information returned by hunters and birders helps monitor dove populations. Scientists also track the popular gamebird’s migrations in Missouri and other states.

A limited number of openings are available for people interested in dove banding to join MDC crews at the James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area at Lee’s Summit. Public participation in dove banding is available on Aug. 2, 3 and 4, and again on Aug. 9 and Aug. 10. Two trapping and banding sessions will be held on each day beginning at 5:30 and 7:00 p.m.

Space is limited to six people per session. Participants must register in advance by calling 816-622-0900. Rick Bredesen, Reed Area manager, said the sessions will give participants a chance to work closely with doves and see science-based wildlife management in action. The sessions will also be a chance to discuss ecology and wildlife topics such as bird migration and habitat.

For more information on doves and science-based conservation in Missouri, visithttp://mdc.mo.gov.