Leg injuries were seen in Anna’s Hummingbirds at multiple sites in central California, affecting 7% to 16% of recaptured females. These injuries happened because nesting material was built under their bands, and their legs naturally grew during breeding. Changing band sizes didn’t stop the injuries. Also, avian pox-like lesions were found on different body parts, which could hurt the hummingbirds permanently. Different banding methods, like steel, aluminum, or plastic bands, have caused leg injuries in other bird species, showing more significant worries about environmental diseases in bird conservation.

    This study is related to environmental science because it shows how environmental science connects with wildlife health and conservation. The buildup of nesting material under bands and the need to change band sizes to help the birds show how habitat changes made by humans and wildlife health are closely linked. To add on, the study highlights how human activities can affect bird populations and why managing the environment sustainably is essential. Ultimately, it emphasizes how crucial environmental science is for understanding and dealing with the effects of human activities on wildlife and ecosystems.