Bayesian methods for analysing ringing data

A major recent development in statistics has been the use of fast computational methods of Markov chain Monte Carlo. These procedures allow Bayesian methods to be used in quite complex modelling situations. In this paper, we shall use a range of real data examples involving lapwings, shags, teal, dippers, and herring gulls, to illustrate the power and range of Bayesian techniques. The topics include: prior sensitivity; the use of reversible-jump MCMC for constructing model probabilities and comparing models, with particular reference to models with random effects; model-averaging; and the construction of Bayesian measures of goodness-of-fit. Throughout, there will be discussion of the practical aspects of the work - for instance explaining when and when not to use the BUGS package.