EURING Code Manual - The European Union for Bird Ringing

Primary Identification Methodalphanumeric, two charactersThis field is to denote the primary method used to identify a bird. Where a metal ring is present, thiswill always be the primary identification method, regardless of what other marks are placed on thebird. With the development of new technology it is likely that, in the future, some birds may bemarked by other methods (e.g. transponders) and will not have metal rings attached. This fieldanticipates that future need. At present, it is anticipated that the primary identification marker will bea metal ring.When a bird is only marked with a method other than the metal ring (primary identification methodnot A0), and on a next catch a metal ring is added, the primary identification method must bechanged to A0 and also on previous records of this bird.The code in this field will be the same on any capture of a bird. It will not change if a secondarymarker is added to a bird. It is essential that a bird is identified by the same method and numberthroughout its life.Reringed birds. At present, if a bird is re-ringed, the number of the first ring is retained as the bird'sidentifier. This allows any record for an individual to be easily linked together. In the same way if, inthe future, the primary identifier is changed, that bird will continue to be identified by the firstidentifier it had.A0B0C0D0E0F0G0H0K0L0R0T0Metal ring.Coloured or numbered leg ring(s).Coloured or numbered neck ring(s).Wing tags.Radio tracking device.Satellite tracking device.Transponder.Nasal mark(s).GPS loggersGeolocator loggers (recording daylight).Flight feather(s) stamped with a number.Body or wing painting or bleaching.EURING exchange-code 2000 Enhanced 7 - 42