Tracking Movements of Fledged Chicks

We made systematic efforts in 2012 to relocate chicks that we had marked in July and August. This effort will allow us to learn to what extent chicks remain on their natal lakes or wander to other lakes nearby. This topic is of particular interest to us, because it is possible that, by exploring and becoming familiar with the lakes near their natal lake, chicks lay the groundwork for their return to the study area at ages 2 to 4 years. Thus, their movement patterns while juveniles might help us predict where they will settle down the road.