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About Birds

Sirens of Greek Myth Were Bird-Women, Not Mermaids
April 06, 2018 — A new translation of Homer’s Odyssey corrects the record: The Sirens' seductive power lies with their otherworldly, avian knowledge.
Arts & Culture
The Silent Flight of Owls, Explained
July 28, 2017 — Even large owls, like Barred and Barn Owls, manage to fly nearly silently through the trees. How do they pull it off—and why?
Bird Science
How Flamingos Stand on One Leg Without Falling Over
May 27, 2017 — New research shows that the birds are specially built for balancing.
Bird Science
Scientists Pinpoint the Secret Password That Unlocks Cowbirds' Self-Identity
May 16, 2017 — The mystery of how Brown-headed Cowbirds—which are raised by members of other species—learn to see themselves as cowbirds has finally been solved. The answer lies deep in the brain.
Bird Science
Meet the Tiniest Owl in the World
March 20, 2017 — Native to the American Southwest, Elf Owls are slightly larger than a soda can, but that doesn't stop them from being determined predators.
Bird Questions and Facts
What the Heck Is a Lek? The Quirkiest Mating Party on Earth.
March 15, 2017 — Consider this your guide to the mating ritual that shapes the lives of a hundred dancing, singing bird species.
Bird Behavior
Pittsburgh’s Famous Bald Eagles Lost Their Nest Tree, but They Aren't Giving Up
February 23, 2017 — Within days of losing their nest, the eagles built a new one and possibly even laid another egg, which would be an unprecedented achievement.
Bird News
Hear the Many Different Hoots of the Barred Owl
February 17, 2017 — The increasingly common owl has more than a dozen calls, including one that sounds like a monkey.
Birding by Ear
So, Apparently Some Woodpeckers Like to Eat the Brains of Baby Birds
January 05, 2017 — Yes, you read that correctly. And there's video evidence.
Bird Behavior
A Photo ID Quiz That's Perfect for Beginner Birders
December 14, 2016 — Test your birding knowledge with 10 species often found during the Christmas Bird Count.