Science and Research

R-class authority

This is a restricted authority enabling the holder to operate under limited A-class supervision and under prescribed conditions. R-class authorities may be issued to people who have substantial banding-related skills but who do not meet the full requirements for an A-class authority. R-class authorities may also be issued to applicants with relevant banding experience seeking to research a specific species for a limited time (eg university research). After a period of training, C-class banders may apply to have their authority upgraded to R-class. It is important to note however, that unsupervised banding generally will not contribute towards qualifying for an A-class authority.

Qualifications:

1. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
2. Applicants are expected to have considerable banding experience, or particular skills, experience, and knowledge of a target species or group.
3. Applications must be supported by two referee reports supporting the application, including at least one provided by an A-class bander who has first-hand knowledge of the applicants related skills, experience or particular knowledge, and an A-class bander's agreement to provide adequate training and supervision. For R-class banders wishing to apply for their own project, both referee reports must be from A-class banders, or equivalent.

Projects:

In special circumstances, R-class banders may apply to undertake their own projects, although most R-class banders elect to assist on projects run by other banders. ABBBS support of R-class projects is at the discretion of the ABBBS, and is not automatic. Bands and other equipment will only be issued for use on approved projects.

Conditions:

Conditions may be specified restricting the Authority-holder to prescribed species, circumstances, capture methods etc.

Duration:

R-class authorities are issued for one year.

Permits:

R-class banders are required to hold the necessary State/Territory permits to trap, band and release wildlife. State/Territory wildlife agencies are notified of applications for enrolment as an R-class bander.

Responsibilities:

R-class banders with approved projects are responsible for

1. ensuring accurate and timely provision of all banding data to the ABBBS, preferably by computer disk
2. ensuring that all necessary State/Territory permits are held
3. disseminating the results of their project to the wider scientific community
4. ensuring that the bird/bat handling and banding techniques employed during their study are always of the highest standard and that the safety of the birds/bats remains of paramount concern to all involved with the work.

Endorsements:

• Levels of trapping endorsements