Workshop | Nestbox Monitoring
Description: This is an introductory training session for nestbox monitoring and an overview of the citizen science efforts at the Leighton Art Centre in support of the Mountain Bluebird and Tree Swallow Conservation.
Topics covered:
- Identification/ characteristics/ calls/ behaviours of Mountain Bluebirds & Tree Swallows
- Life cycle/ timing
- Nest characteristics (who lives in the box?)
- Setting up a trail (location of nestboxes/ installation)
- Monitoring (duties)
- Data collection
- Evidence of success!
- Troubleshooting (squirrels, mice, parasites, house sparrow)
- How to send in results of data collection to CANMS
- Banding training
- View nestbox monitoring at Leighton Art Centre
Audience: Adults, Teenagers (13-17), Families
Participants are asked to bring:
- Monitor Guidebook. Books can be purchased on the day of for $20 (non-CANMS memebers). Guidebooks are NOT MANDATORY for participation in this session.
- Please dress in comfortable clothing and foothwear appropriate for the weather. LAC is a rural site that is often colder and wetter than the city. Our pathways are over uneven ground that can be muddy or wet. We highly recommend wearing multiple layers, hats, sunscreen and bug spray.
- Any snacks or water bottle for the day! LAC is located in a rural community. It is a 20 – to 30-minute drive to the nearest convenience store or quick stop for lunch.
Registration cost:
- $20/ person (non-members of CANMS)
- FREE to members of CANMS
Did you know that Members of the Leighton Art Centre get 10% off the registration cost of all workshops and kids’ summer camps? Please visit https://leightoncentre.org/join-us/become-a-member/.
*Please note that the fee for this workshop includes admittance to our historic museum , walking paths and art gallery on the property, which can be enjoyed at your own discretion after the workshop is completed. Leighton Centre is a proud non-profit organization that relies on donations to help meet demanding operational costs. We appreciate your contribution by attending our workshops and other events that allow us to continue thriving!
Artist/Instructor/Guide Bio: The Calgary Area Nestbox Monitors Society (CANMS) is a volunteer conservation organization that began in 1973 when the first bluebird nestbox trails in the Calgary area were established. The group was formally founded in 1980 and broadened to more bird species. Over more than four decades, CANMS has grown from a handful of monitors to dozens of teams maintaining thousands of nestboxes.
Cancellation and Refund Policy: Please note there is a NO REFUND policy on all Leighton Art Centre workshops. A refund will only be issued to participants if the workshop is cancelled by the workshop coordinator due to insufficient enrollment or extreme weather conditions. Workshops may be cancelled prior to the start date and participants will be notified via email and/or phone, and a full refund will be processed.
