Nestbox Monitoring – Monitor Training

Description: This is an introductory training session for nestbox monitoring and an overview of the citizen science efforts at the Leighton Art Centre to support 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?)
• Nest design and use
• 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: Jim Critchley and Bob Cooper are long-time members of the Calgary birding community. Bob serves on Calgary Area Nestbox Monitors Society as the VP & banding station permit leader. Jim serves as the Treasurer. Both Bob and Jim are active in education, recruitment, and outreach for CANMS.

Jim is an active long-time volunteer, envirnomental educator, and workshop leader with the Leighton Art Centre. Jim served 9 years on the board with Leighton Art Centre.

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, extreme weather conditions, or Covid-19 restrictions. 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. Withdrawal from workshops for medical reasons must be accompanied by a doctor’s medical note or a positive COVID 19 rapid test and must be received by the Leighton workshop coordinator prior to the workshop start date to be qualified for a full refund.