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.
Conservation News
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.
Birding News
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.
Feature Stories
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.
Conservation News
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.
Conservation News
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.
Binoculars
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.
News
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.
News
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.
Greening the Grid
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.
Greening the Grid