Prepared for the Release

The bird we were checking in the prior post, a Gray-Cheeked Thrush, was in great health and ready to be released. Clearly none the worse for wear, we see a different hand grip by the naturalist, firmly but gently holding the legs as the bird looks around and is readied for release. Then the hand is lifted, the legs are released, and the Thrush flies off into the trees, banded for identification and having helped teach us a wonderful biology lesson.

The banding table was just beyond the Willowbrook building and exhibit area, right near the bridge leading to the trails and lots of opportunities to walk over a mile looking for birds. Next post will see some of the species migrating through Willowbrook in May, 2009.