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Bird ringing event at San Fernando: a night in the marshes

Bird ringing is a fascinating way to observe, study, and conserve bird populations, and today we had the opportunity to attend an event dedicated to this very purpose, organised by the SGHN (Sociedad Gaditana de Historia Natural). Held near the river Arillo in San Fernando, next to Sendero Tres Amigos, this bird ringing event was an extraordinary experience for everyone involved. The event, which began around 6 PM and lasted for more than 9 hours, brought together a diverse group of over 20 people, including both professional bird ringers and learners eager to hone their skills. Participants came from various parts of Spain, all united by their shared passion for avian conservation.



Setting up the nets in the marshes


As the evening light began to wane, the group embarked on the first task of the event—setting up misting nets in the marshes. These nets, crucial for safely capturing birds, were installed while there was still enough daylight. The marshes, though beautiful, required everyone to wade through the mud to reach the ideal spots for the nets. Once in place, the nets were left closed as the group prepared for the night ahead.



Group of people walking through the marshes



People stepping through the mud
Great fun in the mud

People standing in the water holding big nets
The nets are set up well before sunset





Around 9 PM, when the sun had just set and the sky was fading into twilight, the nets were finally opened. This timing was critical, as several wader birds become more active at dusk, increasing the likelihood of a successful catch.


People holding big nets at dusk
Time to open the nets completely


People setting up misting nets at dusk



Also ground traps were deployed



The first birds


By 9:30 PM, the first birds had flown into the nets, marking the beginning of what would be a long and fruitful night of bird ringing. The group made several rounds to check the nets and the ground traps, and each time, they found a variety of birds entangled in the fine mesh. It was a thrilling sight for everyone, especially those new to the experience.



In almost complete darkness the first birds are collected from the nets


Among the birds caught were several species of waders, including Sanderling, Curlew Sandpiper, Dunlin, Common Redshank and Red Knot. These species are known for their long migrations, making them perfect candidates for ringing, as the data collected can provide valuable insights into their migratory patterns and overall health.



Wader birds in a net
Some of the wader birds waiting to be examined



Ringing and data collection


In total, 69 birds were ringed throughout the night, an impressive number that made the event a significant success. The process of ringing each bird was done with great care and precision. Each bird was gently removed from the net and then taken to the ringing station. Here, the birds were carefully measured and weighed. Their age, sex, and any other notable features were recorded. A lightweight ring was placed around the leg, or a combination of colours to make distant identification possible in the future.



A close look at the wing of a Dunlin





Hand holding a Dunlin
Dunlin


A ringer is ringing a little bird
A Sanderling is being ringed


A man is measuring the head of a bird with a special tool
A special tool is used to measure the head of a Sanderling


A man putting a bird in a plastic tube
This bird is put in a small plastic tube ...


... in order to be weighed

Interestingly, among the birds caught, two already had rings. These birds had been ringed in England and Norway, highlighting the vast distances these tiny creatures can travel. The data from these rings will contribute to international bird tracking efforts, helping to build a global picture of bird movements and behaviour.



Woman holding a little bird
This Ringed Plover had been ringed in Stavanger, Norway



Man holding a Redshank
Common Redshank


Man with a beard holding a bird in his hands
Determining this bird's fat mass


Hands spreading a bird's wing
A bird's wing provides a lot of information


Fingers pointing at a drawing on the page of a book
In some cases expert books provide the necessary information


A sheet of paper with scientific information
A paper to keep track of the colour combinations


Hand holding a bird
One of the two Black Terns


Hand holding a little bird
A strange-looking Kentish Plover


Man measuring a bird





A night dedicated to conservation


The entire process, from capturing to ringing, was carried out as quickly as possible to minimise stress on the birds. The team’s dedication to bird welfare was evident in their careful handling and efficient work. As the night progressed, the group continued their rounds, collecting more birds from the nets and repeating the process until the early hours of the morning.


This bird ringing event at San Fernando was more than just a scientific exercise; it was a powerful reminder of the beauty and fragility of bird life and the importance of efforts to protect it.




Man smiling while holding a bird in his hands
Hard work, but fun!


Two men and a woman holding some birds



Hands holding a bird above a table
Ruddy Turnstone


Man standing next to a little bird on the sand
The birds are released as quickly as possible and soon return to their flock

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