How can I capture wild birds for identification

Question

I'm beginer bird watcher, but for more accuracy I would like to catch identify and release the birds, but I have no information about techniques and types of traps, can you help please

Answer 1

You can't capture birds legally, all wild native birds are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.  You cannot even possess a wild birds feather legally, let alone an entire bird.  Try taking photos of birds or drawing sketches.  Put up a feeder, so birds will linger longer for better ID and better photos. I am permitted to capture birds for banding purposes..but I am a professional and had to go through LOTS of paperwork, documentation,  training, and waiting to obtain a permit.

Answer 2

Mist nets may be illegal without permit.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mist_net

Answer 3

With a camera.  It is illegal to capture any native bird.  All those people you see on the nature shows have permits.  Not only that, they know what they are doing.  You have NO right attempting to capture birds.  Wildlife belongs to the people, all the people.  You have NO greater right than I do.  And I say leave them alone.  If I saw you attempting to capture birds, I'd call the law to you.

Leave the wild to the wild.

Answer 4

Before you get to the techniques part you should find out what laws apply to capturing wild birds in your state as well as federal regulations.

For example it is illegal in the US to interfere with raptors (owls, eagles, hawks, etc) as well as some species of migratory birds. The link below is to the US Fish & Wildlife Service web site.

Answer 5

In the UK any sort of trapping of birds is illegal. With a very few exceptions.