Official research methodology guidelines for applicants seeking Association of Field Ornithologists (AFO) grants, detailing permitted and prohibited field techniques.
Projects must be question-driven and designed to provide new information.; Research must adhere to ethical guidelines regarding bird handling and welfare.; Applicants must justify methodologies and demonstrate experience or training.
Requirements
Methods section must clearly fit within AFO guidelines.; Applicants must describe experience/training with proposed methodologies.; Evidence of non-detrimental impact for unusual techniques must be provided.; Projects involving banding must justify the minimal number of bands required.
Application materials
Research proposal with detailed Methods section; Justification for specific methodologies (e.g., blood sampling, device attachment); Evidence of experience or training for difficult techniques
How to apply
Review the latest version of the Guide to the Use of Wild Birds in Research.; Contact the chair of the AFO Grants Committee if uncertain about project eligibility.; Structure the proposal to explicitly address methodology guidelines.
Documents
AFO Research Guidelines (PDF)
Contact
Chair of the AFO Grants Committee
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