News

The Best New Gear for Birding This Winter
December 16, 2016 — Our favorite picks to help keep you comfortable when the mercury drops.
Gear
Why You Shouldn't Feed or Bait Owls
December 16, 2016 — Some photographers use live mice or even cat toys to attract owls for an action shot. The photo isn't worth it—here's why.
Ethics
New 30-Year Eagle Kill Rule Gets Finalized
December 15, 2016 — After hearing public and conservationists’ concerns, the government is sticking to its original incidental-take plan, with a few small changes.
New Study Doubles the World’s Number of Bird Species By Redefining 'Species'
December 15, 2016 — A modified definition of 'species' suggests there are nearly 20,000 different kinds of birds, but the model is controversial and difficult to apply to conservation.
Hundreds of Atlantic Piping Plovers Are Missing After Hurricane Matthew
December 14, 2016 — Areas of the Bahamas where populations of the birds overwinter were decimated by the October storm.
10 Spectacular Owl Photos You Have to See
December 13, 2016 — In a new book, photographer Paul Bannick brings his wide-eyed subjects to life through rare and inspiring snapshots.
Books
Why Woodpeckers Can Safely Slam Their Faces Into Trees
December 12, 2016 — These birds are highly evolved to do one job.
Podcast
That Thing with Feathers
December 10, 2016 — When the world starts to look dark, it can help to pay close attention to the beauty around us.
Letter From the Editor
Scientists Discover First Mummified Example of a Feathered Dinosaur Tail
December 09, 2016 — The rare, amber-encased fossil, which belonged to a young coelurosaur, tells a new story about feather evolution.