The Tadoussac Bird Observatory could not continue all these research projects without the invaluable help of thousands of volunteers. We would like to thank them warmly for their time and all the moments spent with them.
Why get involved with TBO?
Since 1995, the Tadoussac Bird Observatory has been developing targeted bird and population monitoring projects using mist nets to identify, band and measure individuals transiting on one of North America’s most important migration corridors. Since then, many of our projects have involved the capture of passerines and raptors, in order to track population trends, answer specific research questions and raise public awareness.
Given the need to do this efficiently and safely, while achieving a sufficient capture ratio, our team is made up of one or two professional banders and a team of 2 to 8 volunteers. Each volunteer is trained in bird identification and handling, while contributing to bird conservation and meeting other enthusiasts.
After several days in an exceptional setting, the experience of volunteering with our team is above all a human one, which is what makes it so enriching. There are also many other ways to contribute to the TBO, including the Festival des oiseaux migrateurs de la Côte-Nord and fundraising events (Grand défi QuébecOiseaux and Birdathon).
To help us, fill in our online form
What does it mean to be a volunteer?
For projects involving the handling of birds, volunteers accompany the team at the times set out in our research protocols. The projects involve prior organization at the station before the capture systems are opened. Mist nets are then deployed for a continuous period of six to seven hours, depending on the project. This period may be reduced due to weather conditions, to ensure the safety of the birds.
When volunteering with TBO, the first few days are spent familiarizing yourself with the project and the methods used, all under the watchful eye of the professional team. Please note that training is personalized and depends on your comfort level in handling birds. That’s why we ask for stays of at least 10 days, so that you can learn the basics of bird population monitoring by banding, while allowing our team to get on with its work.
To get involved in bird population monitoring by banding, fill in our online form.To get involved, other than in bird population monitoring, contact us by e-mail at direction.oot@explosnature.ca.
Who can become a volunteer?
Everyone! However, it is important to consider several aspects before signing up for projects to monitor migratory bird populations by banding:
- The projects involve walking up to 10km a day, in conditions that can be difficult.
- Handling birds requires considerable fine dexterity and exemplary visual acuity, in order to extract birds quickly and safely.
- For longer stays, you will be interviewed by a member of the team
- Accommodation is available, but limited. We therefore favor longer stays.
These points are particularly important, given our focus on the health and safety of birds and their handlers. That’s why our golden rule is, no matter how much experience you’ve had: pride has no place with birds (Bird first!).
Your training is essential to our mission of raising awareness, and is provided by a team of professionals. Every year, we welcome beginners, interns and CEGEP/university students who want to gain hands-on experience while contributing to a charitable organization.
If you don’t want to volunteer but would like to support us, please make a donation.
If you’re a student, contact us by e-mail at direction.oot@explosnature.ca, indicating your dates of availability.
