Leg flags on migratory shorebirds

The position of the metal band is not required to determine the flagging location, and may vary from that shown.

For two-colour flag combinations the flag position sometimes varies as follows:

• On large waders, the flags are usually both placed on the tibia;

• On smaller waders one flag is placed on the tibia and one on the tarsus.

Engraved numbers and/or letters are now being used on many of the new flags. These will identify the date and place where the bird was flagged.

In addition to the colour flags illustrated here some countries are adding coloured bands as part of unique combinations (too complex to list here). Please take careful note of all flags and bands as well as which leg/s they are on.

All reports of flag sightings will be replied to, even if you see the same flag colour many times. Please report all sightings.

• Please report all sightings to Clive Minton.

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