Could this be his Mug Shot...the Lesser Knot
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G.W.R.C. of New Zealand has had a long running Bird Band Program with North America...they may be interested in the history of your found Bird Band?
Greater Wellington Regional Council...G.W.R.C.
Many birds come from overseas to feed at estuaries and mudflats during New Zealand’s summer. Wading birds, such as lesser knots, bar-tailed godwits, whimbrels and eastern curlews, come from the northern hemisphere. Terns also arrive from the Arctic and from Asia.
Bird banding: Our work