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About Birds

Ask Kenn: Egret, Ibis, Flamingo, Heron, Stork—What's the Difference?
July 30, 2021 — Wading birds may appear similar, but looks can often be deceiving, explains Kenn Kaufman in this month's Ask Kenn!
Bird Questions and Facts
Marbled Godwits forage in a wetland.
The Marvel and Mystery of Marbled Godwit Migration
July 22, 2021 — The Subtle Beauty of Shorebirds series, July
ROCKIES Bird Migration
Congress Is Set to Remove a Longstanding Barrier to Listing Greater Sage-Grouse Under the Endangered Species Act
July 22, 2021 — For years, an obscure budget provision has blocked the federal government from protecting the fast-declining birds. That may be about to change.
Conservation News
Three lost birds that have been rediscovered in the last two decades. Left to right: Black-browed Babbler, Blue-eyed Ground-Dove, and the Madagascar Pochard.
The Quest for ‘Lost’ Birds Delivers Highs and Lows
July 13, 2021 — Thousands of species exist in a liminal space of conservation—they haven't been seen in a long time, but that doesn't mean they are extinct. Groups hope to crowdsource more rediscoveries.
Bird News
Scientists Still Searching for the Pathogen Behind the East's Songbird Epidemic
July 08, 2021 — In a new report, experts ruled out a range of causes, but they still recommend taking down feeders until the source of the disease is identified.
Conservation News
Turning Off Lights at Night Could Halve Bird Deaths On Chicago’s Lakeshore
July 06, 2021 — An analysis of more than 11,000 birds struck dead by a single building's windows shows turning lights off during migration makes a big difference.
Bird-friendly Buildings
Five Incredible Ways Birds Change Their Bodies for Spring and Fall Migration
April 09, 2021 — To power perilous journeys, birds undergo extreme feats like doubling their body weight and rearranging or even consuming their internal organs.
Bird Migration
Do Yourself a Favor This Spring: Go See the American Woodcock’s ‘Sky Dance’
March 26, 2021 — Timberdoodles have one of the wildest mating rituals among North American birds, and you should definitely check it out. Here’s how.
Birding Advice
What a Songbird Lost at Sea Taught Me About Survival
March 24, 2021 — Aboard a mission to explore the alien life of the deep ocean, a chance encounter with a migratory bird offered a point of connection—one that has felt poignant this past year.  
Essays
Rare Yellow Penguin Bewilders Scientists
March 03, 2021 — After photos of the striking King Penguin went viral in recent weeks, experts have been searching for answers.
Bird Feathers and Colors