Awe-Inspiring Journeys

from August 2023: The Laurel Magazine

by The Laurel Magazine of Highlands NC and Cashiers NC

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An innovative program at Highlands Biological Station keeps track of the comings and goings of our feathered neighbors. You can help – visit highlandsbiological.org.

Nestled among the breathtaking landscapes of the southern Appalachian Mountains, the HighlandsCashiers Plateau supports a rich and diverse assemblage of birds.

This quaint region, known for its stunning natural beauty, serves as a crucial stopover for countless migratory birds on their awe-inspiring journeys. The Plateau holds such significance for avian populations that it is even classified as an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society.

Inspired by this information and determined to learn more about local and migratory populations, the Highlands Biological Station (a multi-campus center of Western Carolina University) became a bird banding hub for the Monitoring Avian Productivity and Survivorship (MAPS) project in 2020. This initiative, established over three decades ago, plays a pivotal role in understanding avian demographics and unraveling the mysteries of migration across North America.

The Station’s MAPS bird banding efforts are made possible through collaboration between local organizations. Led by

Blue Ridge Bird Observatory, which has successfully operated several banding stations at other locations in Western North Carolina, and funded by the Highlands Biological Foundation, this project harnesses the expertise of dedicated scientists who tirelessly work to understand avian demographics and ensure the preservation of our feathered friends.

So, what exactly is MAPS bird banding? Every summer, from May to August, BRBO banders and Station staff work together to band birds and meticulously collect biological data on each individual. Birds are carefully equipped with USGS-issued aluminum bands, each with a distinct identification number, and researchers collect biological data such as age, sex, feather condition, wing measurements, and any signs of disease or injury.

This information allows researchers to gain insights into population trends over time. This data not only enhances our understanding of bird migration patterns and health but also highlights the significance of the Plateau as an essential stopover for these winged travelers.

MAPS bird banding goes beyond research alone by encompassing a citizen-science aspect. Community members and visitors are invited to experience this project first-hand through the Highlands Nature Center’s “A Bird’s Eye View” program. Against the backdrop of the Highlands Botanical Garden, this program offers an exclusive opportunity to engage with scientists, learn about bird ecology and conservation, and immerse oneself in the wonders of nature. This educational program aims to inspire a shared responsibility to protect and preserve avian species and their habitats while showcasing vital research conducted at the Station.

We encourage all to mark their calendars and register for the final “A Bird’s Eye View” session of the season coming up in early August. Banding dates vary and are subject to weather conditions. For more information about the MAPS program, please visit highlandsbiological.org. Let us come together to safeguard these remarkable winged travelers for generations to come.