Discover stories in Birds
There are No Shortcuts to Birding Nirvana
Our newbie birder learns valuable lessons about taking road directions from birders and how to appreciate the hidden values of power line clearings.
Blood, Birds, and Ticks
Using data from the Mad Island Marsh bird hotspot, researchers are studying the ticks and tick-borne pathogens birds carry to the United States.
The Hidden Hazards of Learning to Bird
The latest in the Zero to Hero: Birding series where -- among other things -- our newbie birder discovers that not everyone automatically assumes she's using those binoculars for birding.
A Day in the Life of A Bird Bander at Mad Island Marsh
A day in the life of a bird bander at the Conservancy’s Mad Island Marsh Preserve.
Zero to Hero: Birding Edition
Can someone who can't tell a house finch from a song sparrow become an expert birder in four months? Our blogger is about to find out.
Ready, Set, Bird: 6 Spring Migration Hotspots
Spring migration is underway, so dust off your binoculars and check out our picks for great spring birding hotspots.
Splish, Splash: Why Do Birds Take Baths?
Like people, birds love a good bath. But why? Ornithologist Joe Smith dips into the research on bird bathing, and reveals the science -- and the mystery -- of this backyard phenomenon.
The American Woodcock: Tribute to a Wonderful Wetland Bird
It has 360-degree vision. It binges on worms. And its spring mating ritual includes some of the funkiest dance moves in the bird world. Meet the American woodcock, a.k.a. timberdoodle.
Winter Bird Feeding: Good or Bad for Birds?
Winter bird feeding is hugely popular, with more than 40 percent of U.S. households participating. But is it actually good for the birds? Ornithologist Joe Smith looks at the science behind this backyard activity.
The Hooting Season: Enjoying Great Horned Owls
Winter is the time to enjoy the great horned owl breeding season–a time when these charismatic birds are much easier to see and hear.
The Great Turkey Shuffle: How Restoration Has Changed Gobbler Genetics
When reintroducing wild turkeys across the United States, conservationists paid little attention to turkey subspecies. Today, determining turkey subspecies can require the skills of a wildlife CSI team. What does this mean for turkey genetics -- and future conservation?
The Penguins of Boulders Beach
Forty years ago, Boulder Beach in South Africa had no penguins. Today, tourists flock there to see thousands of these charismatic birds. A conservation success? Not quite. The real story is a bit more complicated.
