This is a selection of images that show the conservation practices used to monitor wild bird populations. The birds are first captured by a very fine net called a mist net which is almost invisible to them. Then trained and experienced ringers (with the appropriate licences) remove them from the net and record some basic information including sex, species, and sometimes size and weight. If the bird already carries a ring on its leg this is recorded, if not a small uniquely coded metal ring is placed on its leg to allow identification in the future. The birds are then safely released unharmed. This data is used by a number of conservation bodies to monitor populations and assess breeding sucess.

	Retrieving birds from the net	© Niall Riddell
	Safely removing bird
	Great spotted woodpecker and mist net
	Great spotted woodpecker
	Recording details
	Great tit in ringers grip
	Gold finch before release
	Volunteer handling Goldfinch