Audubon

Science

New Zealand Once Had Giant Penguins and Parrots, but Why?

New Zealand Once Had Giant Penguins and Parrots, but Why?

September 3, 2019 — Two new fossil discoveries hint at the complex evolution undertaken by the island's ancient—and often huge—birds.
The Secret Lives of Swallow-tailed Kites

The Secret Lives of Swallow-tailed Kites

August 27, 2019 — Satellite tags are helping us better understand the nesting behaviors and migrations of these agile raptors, which hunt, drink, and bathe on the wing.
Are These Birds Better Than Computers at Predicting Hurricane Seasons?

Are These Birds Better Than Computers at Predicting Hurricane Seasons?

August 13, 2019 — A nearly two-decade Veery study suggests these feathered forecasters can sense major storms months in advance.
How Orioles Build Those Incredible Hanging Nests

How Orioles Build Those Incredible Hanging Nests

August 6, 2019 — The delicate-looking structures are stronger than they seem, and come in a variety of shapes and materials.
Disturbing Photo Shows a Black Skimmer Feeding a Cigarette Butt to Its Chick

Disturbing Photo Shows a Black Skimmer Feeding a Cigarette Butt to Its Chick

August 1, 2019 — The image confirms what many researchers have long suspected—that wild birds mistake the pervasive and harmful litter for food.
Did This Plant Evolve to Look Like a Bunch of Hummingbirds?

Did This Plant Evolve to Look Like a Bunch of Hummingbirds?

July 18, 2019 — A photo of a strange Australian flower has Redditors proposing all sorts of scientific hypotheses.
Birds Are Living Proof That ‘Forever Chemicals’ Pollute Our Water Supplies

Birds Are Living Proof That ‘Forever Chemicals’ Pollute Our Water Supplies

July 16, 2019 — Decades of studies show avian eggs and tissues are chock-full of widely used PFAS. Now officials are finally taking action for public health.
Scientists Race to Uncover the Secrets of Madagascar’s Treasure-Filled Forests

Scientists Race to Uncover the Secrets of Madagascar’s Treasure-Filled Forests

July 15, 2019 — The rediscovery of a long-lost duck spurred the creation of two protected areas in the country. Now researchers are scouring these spots for other endemic species before it's too late.
A Mallard Duckling Is Thriving—and Maybe Diving—Under the Care of Loon Parents

A Mallard Duckling Is Thriving—and Maybe Diving—Under the Care of Loon Parents

July 12, 2019 — Scientists discovered the surprising bird family on a Midwestern lake, and so far, all parties seem to be getting along swimmingly.
As the Rockies Melt, This Rare Nesting Bird Will Have Nowhere to Go

As the Rockies Melt, This Rare Nesting Bird Will Have Nowhere to Go

July 12, 2019 — In Wyoming, the Black Rosy-Finch, one of the continent’s least-known, least-accessible birds, may prove a bellwether for a retreating alpine ecosystem—if an intrepid scientist can track its numbers.
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