If your raptor dies, what should you do with the bands/microchips?

When a raptor dies, the appropriate action regarding the bands or microchips is to leave them on the bird. This is crucial for maintaining accurate records and data associated with the bird's history, which is important for wildlife management and conservation purposes.

Leaving the bands and microchips on the deceased raptor allows for proper identification and documentation if the bird is discovered later. This helps wildlife agencies track the populations and injuries or causes of death in raptors. Moreover, removing or disposing of them could hinder future research or data collection efforts regarding the species.

In contrast, throwing the bands/microchips away, removing them entirely, or keeping them for future use could lead to a loss of important information and are not compliant with regulations that govern the responsibilities of falconers regarding their birds. Therefore, maintaining the bands and microchips on the deceased bird aligns with best practices for wildlife stewardship and compliance with regulatory guidelines.