Bird ringing involves capturing wild birds to attach unique numbered rings for individual identification, contributing enormously to migration science but requiring careful welfare management.
Bird ringing provides scientific data of enormous value for conservation and welfare science that cannot be obtained any other way. However, the capture and handling process causes acute stress in wild birds. Mist nets used for capture must be checked frequently to prevent birds from becoming entangled and injured. Processing time must be minimized. Birds are not ringed in extreme weather or when clearly sick. Some species including those with fragile skulls or small size require additional care. Mortality during ringing is very low when conducted by experienced licensed operators following scheme guidelines. The welfare cost of individual ringing events is justified by the conservation insights gained when conducted appropriately. Untrained handling causes significantly higher injury and mortality rates.