Explore Birds

Portrait of a ptarmigan in mostly white plumage and a bright red eyebrow.
This Grouse Is Going Viral: Meet the Willow Ptarmigan, AKA the ‘Awebo’ Bird
April 11, 2025 — This charismatic species from the Arctic tundra has become an internet sensation thanks to its bizarre calls and meme-worthy behavior.
Arts & Culture
A woman stands on a rocky shore holding binoculars and looking into the distance.
Behind the (Birding) Scenes on the Show ‘The Residence’
April 08, 2025 — Bird expert Kenn Kaufman shares his experience as a consultant for the birdy new Netflix series.
Movies & TV
A dock with birds on it in a lake with people on a walkway behind
Spotting Banded Black Skimmers in an Unusual Winter Location
April 04, 2025 — The skimmers recorded in North Central Florida are migrants from northeastern states.
Bird Migration
More Than You Ever Wanted to Know About Heron Necks
April 03, 2025 — From how they work to why they're so long, we’ve got answers to all your (maybe?) burning questions.
Bird Questions and Facts
An aerial view of a snowy St. Matthew Island with a tiny spec of a human in the distance.
The Search for One of North America's Rarest Birds
March 31, 2025 — Scientists must journey to remote islands in the middle of the Bering Sea, braving uncertain conditions, to reach the breeding grounds of McKay's Buntings.
Photo Essay
An aerial landscape dotted with small bodies of water.
Birding Bucket List: Tour America's ‘Duck Factory' in the Bird-Packed Prairie Pothole Region
March 25, 2025 — Glacier-carved fields and ephemeral wetlands provide a crucial stopover for long-distance migrants and prolific breeding grounds for a wide variety of duck species and other waterfowl.
Destinations
A group of people sitting in lawn chairs in a park, some holding binoculars.
How (and Why) to Host a Bird Sit
March 24, 2025 — Casual or competitive, stationary birding events provide a refreshingly different outdoor experience.
Birding Advice
Christopher Joe speaks to a group of people outside, many of whom have binoculars.
You Have What It Takes to Lead Bird Outings
March 24, 2025 — Not a bird expert? Not a problem. To guide a group you need enthusiasm and a welcoming attitude, not perfect ID skills.
Birding Advice
Ask Kenn: How Do Birds Keep Themselves Clean?
March 24, 2025 — Staying fresh is a matter of survival in a bird’s life—and a treat for birders to observe.
Bird Questions and Facts
Three watercolor paintings depicting close ups of the wings of a Blue Jay, Northern Flicker, and Northern Cardinal.
A Close-Up Look at the Beauty of Backyard Birds
March 24, 2025 — In her watercolor triptych, Rosalie Haizlett celebrates the vibrant colors and details found in the feathers of common—and commonly overlooked—species.
Arts & Culture