Podcast

Grebes Like Their Meals with a Side of Feathers—Here's Why

Grebes Like Their Meals with a Side of Feathers—Here's Why
January 25, 2021 — Eating (and spitting up) their own plumes helps these diving birds to safely digest brine shrimp exoskeletons and other rigid foods.
Blackbirds Are Built For a Distinctive Feeding Style Known as ‘Gaping’

Blackbirds Are Built For a Distinctive Feeding Style Known as ‘Gaping’
July 27, 2020 — Powerful gapers have stronger muscles for opening the bill than for closing it—perfect for prying objects open to reveal the morsels inside.
Hear the Persistent, Buzzy Song of the Savannah Sparrow

Hear the Persistent, Buzzy Song of the Savannah Sparrow
July 10, 2020 — To ID this understated brown bird, look for a yellow eyebrow stripe and listen for its subtle trilling.
For Male Cardinals, the Redder the Better

For Male Cardinals, the Redder the Better

June 22, 2020 — Feather brightness may indicate superior genes in species that sport crimson feathers.
The Gorgeous Scarlet Tanager Is a Delightful Summer Treat

The Gorgeous Scarlet Tanager Is a Delightful Summer Treat

June 16, 2020 — Hiding high up in the canopy of eastern forests, these dazzling birds can be surprisingly tough to spot.
The American Robin Hasn't Always Gotten the Worm

The American Robin Hasn't Always Gotten the Worm

May 5, 2020 — Long ago, glaciers wiped out earthworms across the northern U.S.—until new ones arrived with European travelers.
Ospreys, Like Skateboarders, Favor One Foot Over the Other

Ospreys, Like Skateboarders, Favor One Foot Over the Other
April 27, 2020 — The way these fish-eating raptors carry their prey suggests their brains have evolved to divvy up complex tasks.
Immerse Yourself In These Peaceful, Nature-Rich Sound Recordings

Immerse Yourself In These Peaceful, Nature-Rich Sound Recordings

March 18, 2020 — Created by an acoustic ecologist, the place-based soundscapes transport listeners across the globe.
Webbed Feet Are an Evolutionary Hit

Webbed Feet Are an Evolutionary Hit

March 9, 2020 — From geese and gulls to penguins and puffins, these birds have perfectly adapted to life on the water.
When Does a Crossbill's Beak Get Twisted?

When Does a Crossbill's Beak Get Twisted?

February 24, 2020 — Many birds with unusual beaks aren't born with them.