Welcome to Lackawanna Avian Research Center

Research • Education • Conservation • Discovery

Lackawanna Avian Research Center (L.A.R.C.) is dedicated to the study, appreciation, and conservation of birds through hands-on research, education, and community involvement.

At our research site at Lackawanna State Park in Dalton, Pennsylvania, we study the migration of songbirds—including many of the birds you see in your backyard, e.g., American Robins, as well as warblers, sparrows, thrushes, catbirds, and other species—and the migration of the Northern Saw-whet Owl.

Through bird banding and field research, we examine how birds use different habitats and food resources during migration. The birds we capture are only briefly “borrowed” while our trained researchers collect valuable information such as species, age, sex when it can be determined, and general health and body-condition measurements. Each bird also receives a uniquely numbered U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) band before being safely released to continue its journey.

Bird banding provides researchers with important information about migration, habitat use, survival, and the movements of individual birds over time. All bird capture, handling, and banding at L.A.R.C. is conducted under appropriate federal, state, and local permits and guidelines.

Come Learn With Us

An important part of L.A.R.C.’s mission is sharing the wonder of birds and bird research with others. We provide opportunities for students, families, community members, and visitors of all ages to observe bird banding, learn about migration and bird biology, and experience avian research firsthand.

When our research station is open for visitors during the spring and fall migration seasons, we invite you to join us at Lackawanna State Park and discover the remarkable birds traveling through our region.

Whether you are a lifelong birder or are just beginning to discover the world of birds, there is always something new to learn.

Contact L.A.R.C. at LARCbirds@gmail.com for information about visiting, learning, and discovering more about birds with us!