Bird Songs and Calls

A Eurasian Blackbird perched on a mossy branch in a forest, singing.

Which Birdsong Is the Most Beautiful? Here's What Scientists Found

September 09, 2026 — In a new study of European bird species, participants picked the Eurasian Blackbird’s serenade as the most pleasing thanks to acoustic qualities that seem to have universal appeal.

Portrait of Samuel Henderson wearing binoculars, smiling.

Meet the Kid Who Wowed the Internet With His Incredibly Accurate Bird Calls

October 07, 2024 — The talented 10-year-old’s performance at a school talent show recently went viral on TikTok after folks couldn't believe their ears.

Arts & Culture

Why Photographers Should Reconsider Using Playback in the Field

January 25, 2022 — Playing audio clips of songs and calls is a common tool for getting better shots, but it can also be detrimental to birds and their chicks.

Photography Ethics

What Is a Songbird, Exactly?

June 17, 2021 — Turns out it’s about more than just carrying a tune.

Bird Science

How a White-throated Sparrow's New Tune Went Viral

July 02, 2020 — A modified dialect of male song began in a local population in western Canada and, in two decades, traveled to birds more than 1,800 miles away.

Listen to the Loudest Bird Ever Recorded

October 21, 2019 — For female White Bellbirds, hearing a suitor's mating call is like putting her head in the speaker at a rock concert, a new study shows.