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Explore Birds

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
What to Do with Your Old Binoculars
February 09, 2017 — Whether you want to donate or sell the gear you no longer use, here are some ways to declutter.
Binoculars
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.
About Birds
How We Ranked 'Em
December 09, 2016 — An explanation of our methodology for the binocular guide.
Binoculars
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.
Bird Questions and Facts
Was an Owl the Real Culprit in the Peterson Murder Mystery?
November 12, 2016 — A grisly whodunit may rest on the oddest criminal defense theory in recent history. We asked the experts if it’s possible.
Movies & TV
Scientists Finally Have Evidence That Frigatebirds Sleep While Flying
August 11, 2016 — According to a new study, the birds can stay aloft for weeks by power napping in ten-second bursts.
Bird Science
The Shoebill: Or, the Most Terrifying Bird in the World
August 05, 2016 — Are you ready for this thing? I don't think you're ready for this thing.
About Birds
The House Finch
July 15, 2016 — Thanks to an undercover Audubon sting, this bird is more of a backyard staple than a celebrity.
The Sketch
The Chuck-will's-widow and Eastern Whip-poor-will
June 30, 2016 — Nightjars, goatsuckers, whatever you want to call them—these freaky birds are heard but rarely seen.
The Sketch