Tony Rothering, professor of biology, has been awarded a master permit by the United States Geologic Survey (USGS) Patuxent Wildlife Research Center – Bird Banding Lab.

Since 1960, 64 million birds have been banded in North America. On average, 1.2 million birds have been banded every year for the last decade. Tony has been banding birds in some capacity since 2009.  He received a subpermit under master bander Vernon Kleen in March 2014. Over the past six years, Tony has banded over 2200 birds of 89 species. Each aluminum band has a unique nine-digit number that is forever associated with the bird that is wearing this little bit of “bling.” Having a master permit will allow Tony to expand banding initiatives in central Illinois and work with ornithologists/wildlife ecologists throughout the state, country and continent on various research projects. Tony is also often seen giving “bird talks” around the community. Congratulations, Tony, on your accomplishment!