Training: Appendix C Documenting Migrant, Vagrant, and Non-breeding Species Only submit documentation for migrant, vagrant, and nonbreeding species (MVN) if it is outside of its normal migratory pathway. For example, a Western Kingbird sighting on a BBS route in Maryland should be supported with some documentation of the observation. The same would hold true for a Yellow-throated Vireo in California. Basically, if a state’s rare bird committee would require documentation of the MVN, then documentation should also be sent to the BBS office. The report should contain the following elements: Field marks and/or behavioral characteristics that were used to identify the species. Duration of observation (i.e. fleeting glance, a full-minute, etc.) Distance from observer. Type of optics used to view species (i.e., 7 x 35 binos., 10 x 40 binos., none, etc.). Type of habitat where species was detected. Similar species in area and how they were ruled out. Training Main Menu U.S. Department of the Interior | U.S. Geological Survey Eastern Ecological Science Center Laurel, MD, USA 20708-4038 BBS Homepage Contact Us Last Modified:  2/5/2023 BBS Privacy Statement