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Black Skimmers are unique seabirds that nest on open beaches and forage for fish primarily at night. Because of coastal construction, predation primarily by species attracted to human food, and disturbance due to humans, skimmers are declining. To better protect and manage skimmer populations, we are contributing to a US-wide banding program.
We have been banding in Pinellas County and Sarasota, FL since 2015 (with State and Federal permits). Based on what we’ve observed it seems like the northern birds do migrate south, often to Florida. Florida birds seem to move around the state, occassionally visiting the Yucatan, Mexico, Mississippi, and Georgia.
Below is a look up tool for birds we banded (A, B, H, J and 2 character green bands)
If you see a banded black skimmer, please report it to the Federal Bird Banding Lab (click here). Note: you can report any bird using just the field readable (the green band), you don't need the numbers on the federal metal band.
Older skimmer chicks are hand-caught and with nets
Basic measurements and weight are recorded.
Plastic bands with a letter/number combo are placed on one leg
Birds are resighted throughout the US
Some birds have bands with a number followed by a letter
Some birds have a letter followed by two numbers
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