Certification

NABC provides opportunistic certification sessions for shorebirds which are typically combined in annual, or bi-annual workshops, writing a written exam, and self-administered experiential-based checklist. Workshops and certification sessions currently coincide with the bi-annual Western Hemisphere Shorebird Group meetings. For more information about shorebird training and certification contact the Shorebird sub-committee chair.

Shorebird Certification

NABC shorebird certification is a voluntary qualification designed to encourage standardized, stepwise progressive bander development and encourage sharing of best practices.

Process and Requirements:

Shorebird certification is offered at three levels:

  1. Certified Banding Assistant
  2. Certified Bander
  3. Certified Trainer

Certification is a four part process:

  1. Study of key materials prior to the workshop and exam.
  2. Attendance at a training and certification workshop.
  3. Pass the written exam.
  4. Field expertise.

In order to achieve certification, applicants must demonstrate that they have achieved a certain level of field expertise. Field expertise is flexible to allow for various experience and expertise with various species, habitat, life stages and capture methods. Ideally, certified banders and trainers will have developed expertise with a variety of species and situations.

Once you have completed the requirements for certification, you may apply for certification by sending your application to the Shorebird sub-committee chair. Your application package should consist of:

  1. The Shorebird Certification Requirements Form filled in and signed by you and your trainers,
  2. An account of your banding experience,
  3. The Application for Certification form and;
  4. Your certificate of participation at an NABC shorebird banding workshop.

Use the NABC Banders’ Checklist for Shorebirds to track your progress.

Please note that NABC shorebird certification does not consider or assess ability or competence to work with projectile capture methods.

Study Materials for Shorebird Certification:

North American Banders’ Study Guide and the North American Bander’s Manual for Banding Shorebirds can be down loaded in English, French or Spanish here: NABC Shorebird Manual

NABC Shorebird sub-committee: Cheri Gratto-Trevor (Chair; Environment and Climate Change Canada), Eveling Tavera (Simon Fraser University, Corbidi), Lesley Howes (Environment and Climate Change Canada).