News

Scientists Pinpoint the Secret Password That Unlocks Cowbirds' Self-Identity
May 16, 2017 — The mystery of how Brown-headed Cowbirdswhich are raised by members of other specieslearn to see themselves as cowbirds has finally been solved. The answer lies deep in the brain.
Bird Science
Its True, Some North American Birds Cant Keep Up With Shifting Spring Blooms
May 16, 2017 — As climate change makes the seasons less predictable, one in five studied species are struggling to time their migrations with the greenery.
This Tiny Hospital Helps Injured Birds Survive the Commotion of New York City
May 15, 2017 — The Wild Bird Fund tends to thousands of birds with help from committed rehabbers and curious rescuers. Meet some of the patients in recovery.
Flock Together
How Do Birds Taste Their Food?
May 15, 2017 — While birds' beaks may seem hard and impermeable, in some species like ducks the insides are coated with hundreds of taste buds.
Podcast
Proposed Oyster Farm Expansions Would Harm California's Humboldt Bay
May 12, 2017 — Home to a diversity of wildlife and half of the state's eelgrass beds, Humboldt is a vital stopover site for migratory birds.
Lose Yourself in Lang Elliot's Immersive 'Soundscapes' of the American West
May 12, 2017 — Youve probably heard Elliots wildlife recordings before. Now, take an auditory journey with him on his new podcast, The Music of Nature.
Arts & Culture
Why Baiting Owls Is Not the Same as Feeding Backyard Birds
May 11, 2017 — Some people question the difference between the two. There is a distinctionand the lives of birds depend on it.
Ethics
Birdist Rule #110: Use Weather Forecasts to Predict When Migrating Birds Will Arrive
May 11, 2017 — With some basic knowledge, you can greatly increase your chances of seeing your favorite spring migrants.
The Birdists Rules of Birding
Do the Benefits of Tracking Migrant Warblers Outweigh the Risks?
May 10, 2017 — Research shows that geolocators might prevent some migratory warblers from returning home, but those that do provide valuable conservation data.
How One Neighborhood Saved Millions of Gallons of Water With Native Plants
May 09, 2017 — By installing water-saving appliances and less thirsty native plants, this Colorado community saved 15 million gallons of water in just one year.
Native Plants