Once in a while when you are out watching birds you may notice one with a band around its neck or leg.  These bands are usually colorful and contains letters, numbers, and/or symbols. 

Why are birds banded?  Scientists put bands on birds to find out where the birds fly to.  For example, Snow Geese are banded on their breeding grounds in the far north.  Scientists can then track their migration and wintering grounds simply by the reports of birdwatchers who call in when and where they saw a particular banded bird.

If you find a bird with a band you can call 1-800-327-BAND to report where you saw the bird.  After a long wait, you may even be rewarded with a Certificate of Appreciation which will be mailed to you.  See below for an example of one sent by the United States Geological Survey and the Canadian Wildlife Service.  I found this particular bird, a Canada Goose, on October 12, 1999 in the town of Sauquoit, NY.  The bird was 7 years old (since it was hatched in 1992 or earlier).  It was banded in Burkittsville, MD on July 8, 1993 by a Mr. William F. Harvey.