Ask Kenn!

Ask Kenn Kaufman: Why Do Some Birds Have Such Extreme Mating Rituals?
June 30, 2021 — While certain avian pairs dance to reaffirm their bonds, it's the bird world's bachelors that perform almost unbelievably ornate displays.

Ask Kenn: What Exactly Is a Warbler?

May 28, 2021 — Species bearing the name warbler are found around the world, but how they're classified can be complicated, explains bird expert Kenn Kaufman.
Illustration: Joe Ciardiello

Ask Kenn Kaufman: Are Yellow Northern Cardinals Becoming More Common?

April 28, 2021 — Also answered in this month's column: Why are some birds such better mimics than others?

Ask Kenn Kaufman: What's the Best Way to Become a Better Birder?

March 31, 2021 — In this month's column, Kenn shares his "four Ls" philosophy for birding. Plus, do birds that live in flocks have a higher chance of survival?

Ask Kenn: How Many of the World's Bird Species Have Gone Extinct?

January 22, 2021 — In this month's column, bird expert Kenn Kaufman tackles a common—and tricky to answer—question.

Ask Kenn: How Did the Evening Grosbeak Get Its Misleading Name?

November 25, 2020 — In this month's Ask Kenn!, bird expert Kenn Kaufman shares the surprising origins of the finch's moniker. Plus, why your feeder birds fight so much.

Here's Why So Many More Birds Migrate Through the Eastern United States

October 15, 2020 — In this month's Ask Kenn!, bird expert Kenn Kaufman provides a detailed look at how geography shapes the routes of migratory birds.

Ask Kenn Kaufman: Why Do Birds Abandon Nests for No Apparent Reason?

August 6, 2020 — Also this month: How did Hawaii get its owls? And who is the best ear birder Kenn's ever met?

Ask Kenn Kaufman: Which Birds Are Most Like Their Dinosaur Ancestors?

June 30, 2020 — Also this month: Why do birds sing more in the early morning? And why does North America have so many birds with crests?

Ask Kenn Kaufman: Is the Ivory-billed Woodpecker Extinct?

May 29, 2020 — Also this month: Do male Baltimore Oriole have their own distinct songs? And who would play you in a movie version of "Kingbird Highway"?