Susan Cosier

Reporter, Audubon magazine
About

Susan Cosier is a Chicago-based journalist focused on science and the environment.

Articles by Susan Cosier

A gray and yellow Kirtland's Warbler perches in a young pine tree, framed by the green branches.
Kirtland’s Warblers Are Declining Fast. Can We Turn Their Fate Around Again?
June 25, 2026 — In Michigan, conservationists are experimenting with new ways to manage forest habitats for this heralded comeback species.
Illustration of kids building bird houses at a table and looking out the window at birds.
How Educators Are Fostering the Next Generation of Avian Advocates
September 18, 2025 — Experts say it isn’t hard to get kids excited about birds—and conservation action.
Partially hidden by brown grass and shrubbery, a Lesser Prairie-Chicken with its patterned, striped feathers dances to attract a mate.
In the Great Plains, Landowners Are Banking On the Lesser Prairie-Chicken’s Survival
March 25, 2025 — The best bet to save the imperiled species may be a system that pays farmers and ranchers to protect its grassland home.
A Sandhill Crane walks through a freshly planted corn field.
Wisconsin Weighs Sandhill Crane Hunts to Protect Crops Despite a Nonlethal Option
March 25, 2025 — Wildlife advocates say hunting Sandhill Cranes could hurt populations without solving the problem of crop damage. Meanwhile, a nontoxic coating for seeds offers a safer path.
A mottled brown whip-poor-will with squinty eyes sits perfectly camouflaged on a tree branch.
Revealing the Mysteries of Whip-poor-wills—and What It Might Take to Save Them
September 29, 2023 — Recently uncovered secrets long held by species in the elusive nightjar family, and those still waiting to be unraveled, could provide information vital to curtailing their recent losses.
A young girl in a striped dress looks through binoculars amid tall grass and wildflowers, with trees overhead.
A Binocular Guide for Growing Birders
September 29, 2023 — A good pair of bins can wow kids, helping them to delight in birding. These five picks make the grade.
An illustration of a hand putting a coin into the roof of a house that has solar panels and an electric car charging in the driveway.
Here’s What the Inflation Reduction Act Can Do for You
February 16, 2023 — Whether you’re a driver, a homeowner, or a renter, take advantage of the cost-saving upgrades the landmark legislation offers.
An illustration of an electric car at a charging station and a map of the US covered in location pins.
Clean Energy Isn’t Enough to Avoid the Worst Consequences of Climate Change
December 15, 2022 — Fortunately, the Inflation Reduction Act includes support in other key areas.
This Little-Known Electricity Agency Could Give Renewable Energy the Push It Needs
September 16, 2022 — State public utility commissions have the power to reduce carbon emissions and address climate change. Some have already begun.
Carbon Capture Could Offer Some Environmental Justice, If It's Not a Scam
February 09, 2022 — As billions of taxpayer dollars pour into carbon capture, experts say that communities affected by fossil-fuel pollution should see reparations.