Catherine Paul, a senior wildlife and fisheries major from Southaven, examines a Brown Thrasher during a class lesson on mistnetting and banding, which are common ways to study bird populations, physiology, movements and habitat preferences. The exercise was part of an ornithology class, which is offered by the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture. To ensure birds are handled properly during wildlife studies, bird banders receive extensive training before receiving a permit.