Captive Breeding
Population Management
Includes care and husbandry of captive birds during their first year. Left to live as wild birds except for occasional checks such as for blood work, weight, any observed injuries.
Small population management
Why keep them? Much better survival of first year birds. Also of breeding age. More socially adept.
Diet and nutrition in captivity
Veterinary care when necessary
Pre-release training
Facility design to minimize injury and provide “strength training” for birds leading up to release
Segregation of males and females in early spring.