London High School -

London City Schools has partnered with the Ohio Division of Wildlife to transform school ponds into a research center for waterfowl banding. Each year, the Ohio Division of Wildlife staff bands approximately 1,700 Mallards and Wood Ducks, 1,200 Canada Geese, and 1,300 Mourning Doves. This banding process, which is exclusive to federal and state agencies, is crucial for setting harvest regulations, assessing hunting pressure, estimating productivity and survival rates, and understanding the vulnerability of different age and sex classes to hunting. Each band bears a unique eight- or nine-digit number, with the last digit indicating the band size, allowing precise tracking and study of individual birds.

This collaboration provides London City Schools students with a unique educational experience, integrating real-world wildlife research into their curriculum. Students will have the opportunity to observe and participate in banding activities, gaining hands-on experience in scientific methods and conservation practices. This initiative not only enhances students' understanding of wildlife management but also contributes valuable data for state and federal conservation efforts. By working together, London City Schools and the Ohio Division of Wildlife are fostering a new generation of conservationists and ensuring the sustainable management of Ohio's wildlife populations.