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Thirsty Hummingbirds
Here they come! Rufous Hummingbirds, Black-chins, Broad-bills, Ruby-throats, and others are migrating north after a hot, dry winter in sunny Mexico or Central America. And they’re ready for a drink. …
Published on 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Spark Bird: Jerome Gaw at the Aquarium
When Jerome Gaw got the chance to volunteer at the Aquarium of the Pacific, he was stoked. He'd loved sharks and marine life since he was a kid. But for his interview, he had to give a presentation o…
Published on 8 months, 3 weeks ago
Meet the Tiniest Owl in the World
Standing less than six inches tall, with gray feathers and big yellow eyes, the Elf Owl weighs less than an ounce and a half — that’s a bit less than a golf ball. But don’t let their size fool you. T…
Published on 8 months, 4 weeks ago
American Woodcock
At sunset, the male American Woodcock – a plump, robin-sized bird – walks slowly on short legs from the cover of the forest to a nearby clearing. After a few sharp calls, the woodcock takes flight. A…
Published on 8 months, 4 weeks ago
Adaptations for Flight
Birds evolved not only wings, but many other adaptations that make it possible to fly. Feathers provide insulation, waterproofing, and a lightweight means to become airborne. Birds have honeycombed o…
Published on 9 months ago
Zone-tailed Hawks Mimic Vultures
Zone-tailed Hawks of the American Southwest look a lot like Turkey Vultures. And they often soar among groups of Turkey Vultures. By consorting with vultures, Zone-tailed Hawks gain a distinct advant…
Published on 9 months ago
Spring Bursts Forth
People often say that spring “bursts” forth. But this seasonal change isn’t like flipping a switch. It’s more like a series of waves breaking slowly. Robins and bluebirds return north in March. Durin…
Published on 9 months ago
Beautiful and Beneficial Gardening for Birds
Buying enough birdseed to keep all your backyard birds satisfied can run up a big bill. Homegrown National Park co-founder Douglas Tallamy says growing native plants in your garden can provide a bala…
Published on 9 months ago
Black Swifts Reach for the Moon
Tracking devices revealed that Black Swifts spent over 99% of their time in the air during the winter, almost never touching the ground for months. What’s more, the swifts flew to incredible heights,…
Published on 9 months ago
Field Sparrow Nests Climb Higher and Higher
Field Sparrows make use of all the warm months of the year by building multiple nests each breeding season. Females will build their first, cup-shaped nest near the ground in dense grasses. As shrubs…
Published on 9 months ago