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Bird Questions and Facts

Do Magpies Like Stealing Shiny Things?
April 15, 2019 — An experiment put the bird's thieving reputation to the test.
What's Up With the Weird Mouths of These Finch Chicks?
January 08, 2019 — Coming in many shapes, colors, and sizes, strange mouth markings might aid in chick survival.
Get to Know the Bee Hummingbird, the World’s Smallest Bird
September 17, 2018 — Only found in Cuba, these birds lay their eggs in nests the size of a quarter.
Better Know a Bird: The American Coot and Its Wonderfully Weird Feet
August 13, 2018 — The odd-looking foot is perfectly built for getting around on land or water. It's not bad for a little wrestling, either.
About Birds
Is It Okay to Remove Cowbird Eggs From Host Nests?
June 06, 2018 — It can be tempting to interfere with these brood parasites. But there are many reasons—legal and behavioral—to leave tampering to the pros.
Bird Nests and Breeding
Research Reveals Exactly Why Peregrine Falcons Are so Deadly
April 13, 2018 — Cameras and simulations are finally enabling scientists to study the nuances of the raptors' extreme hunting techniques.
Bird Science
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
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.
The Common Swift Is No Longer the Fastest-Flying Animal
November 21, 2016 — And here's a surprise: It wasn't even dethroned by another bird.
Where Do Hummingbirds Get All That Energy?
April 13, 2016 — A lifestyle like theirs can only be matched by multiple sugar highs.