Fish and Game biologists recently assisted the Intermountain Bird Observatory team to capture female long-billed curlews in Island Park. Using spotting scopes, biologists locate curlew nests when male and female birds switch incubation duties shortly after sunrise.
When a nest has been located, biologists trap the female at the nest using a large mist net. Biologists work quickly upon capture of the female curlew to weigh, measure, and place a band on the bird. She is then fitted with a backpack satellite transmitter that will provide year-round data on habitat selection, survival and migration.
Long-billed Curlews are classified as a "Species of Greatest Conservation Need" in Idaho’s State Wildlife Action Plan. Information from this study led by IBO will be used to improve management of curlews in Idaho and across the species’ range.
