Audubon

Science

When to Expect Hummingbirds in Your Yard This Spring

When to Expect Hummingbirds in Your Yard This Spring

May 21, 2020 — Flowers are beginning to bloom, and hummingbirds are starting to return from their southern winter sojourns. Here’s a regional guide for when they should arrive and the food they’re seeking.
It’s Not a Huge Deal if We Miss One Season of Climate Watch

It’s Not a Huge Deal if We Miss One Season of Climate Watch

May 18, 2020 — Scientists have been dealing with fragmentary data for years and have many tools to deal with it.
Flamingos Can Forge Long-Lasting Friendships—and Rivalries

Flamingos Can Forge Long-Lasting Friendships—and Rivalries

May 11, 2020 — A new study of captive birds found they prefer to hang out with buddies, and some individuals could even be considered social butterflies.
"What's the Deal With Birds?" a New Paper Asks—While Making a Point

"What's the Deal With Birds?" a New Paper Asks—While Making a Point

April 22, 2020 — In the world of academia, predatory journals with almost no vetting process abound. One researcher had enough.
The Most Innovative Birds Stand the Best Chance of Survival

The Most Innovative Birds Stand the Best Chance of Survival

April 10, 2020 — A new global study finds that species willing and able to try new foods or forage creatively have a lower risk of extinction.
For Scientists Who Study Birds, This Spring Is Without Precedent

For Scientists Who Study Birds, This Spring Is Without Precedent

April 8, 2020 — Due to COVID-19, many researchers who track avian health have stopped or limited work just as migration, breeding, and nesting season ramps up.
When Yellow Warblers Warn of Brood Parasites, Red-winged Blackbirds Listen

When Yellow Warblers Warn of Brood Parasites, Red-winged Blackbirds Listen

April 6, 2020 — A new study found that the bird’s distinct warning call for Brown-headed Cowbirds might also benefit eavesdropping neighbors.
Whooping Cranes Need to Socially Distance, Too, According to New Report

Whooping Cranes Need to Socially Distance, Too, According to New Report

April 2, 2020 — The endangered birds’ flocks are too big, putting them at risk of disease outbreak. Breaking up the large groups requires wetland restoration.
To Get By in the Big City, Birds Need to Have a Large Brain or Lots of Sex

To Get By in the Big City, Birds Need to Have a Large Brain or Lots of Sex

March 25, 2020 — A new study reveals two traits that help some species meet the challenges of city life in a quickly urbanizing world.
When Female Birds Are Overlooked, Conservation Suffers

When Female Birds Are Overlooked, Conservation Suffers

March 23, 2020 — Ornithologists are trying to correct biases and misguided assumptions that can undermine environmental efforts and scientific knowledge.