Birds
Articles tagged with Birds
How songbirds learn to sing, one brain connection at a time
Researchers pinpoint a specific connection in the brain where song learning first occurs, finding that it hinges on a highly organized process involving a single type of synapse. The study sheds light on how songbirds learn to vocalize by imitating a tutor and shares similarities with human language development.
Birds can suffer serious harm from heatwaves
A baby bird’s wishlist: Mild weather, attentive parents, not being the smallest sibling
A new study by Sage Madden reveals that barn swallow chicks' growth is stunted by cold spells within five days of hatching, smallest sibling status, and less food provided by parents. The research, published in PLOS One, provides insight into climate change's impact on chick development.
“Citizen scientist” high school teacher recorded 5 years of migration data for Black Skimmer birds in the Eastern US, documenting the farthest dispersal for breeding for the species
A high school teacher participated in a citizen science project to record migration data for Black Skimmers in the Eastern US. The study documents the farthest dispersal for breeding among this species, providing valuable insights into its movements.
Most birds have not evolved optimal wing-shapes for flight, study finds
Researchers used a technique called theoretical morphospace to analyze bird wings, finding that many species have wing shapes ill-suited for their flight performance. Penguins and hummingbirds stand out as exceptions, having evolved optimally shaped wings for their specialized styles of movement.
Nocturnal migratory birds follow rhythm of the moon
A long-term study reveals how the red-necked nightjar's annual cycle follows the moon's light, influencing feeding, migration, and breeding patterns. The research highlights the vulnerability of nocturnal animals to changes in light levels, with potential consequences for conservation.
Urban birds fear women more than men, and scientists don’t know why
Researchers found that urban birds flee sooner when approached by women compared to men in a European study. The study involved over 2,700 observations across five countries and 37 bird species, revealing that birds can recognize the sex of approaching humans.
Songbird’s extreme desert migration mapped
The thrush nightingale migrates up to 18,000 km with four-to-five consecutive nighttime flights and daytime breaks to avoid intense heat, conserving energy along the way. Advanced sensors track this extreme behaviour, providing insight into the bird's strategy for survival.
Black grouse eye test reveals best flags to protect birds from fatal cables
Researchers found that black grouse can't see dark shades of red and have limited visual contrast, making certain colors ineffective at warning them away from fatal cables. To mitigate this risk, they recommend using large, strongly contrasting markers to provide enough time for the birds to react.
The American Ornithological Society announces its 2026 Latin American/Caribbean Conservation Research grantees
The American Ornithological Society has awarded grants to six early-career researchers from Latin America and the Caribbean to study bird conservation in the region. The projects focus on endemic species and will contribute to broader efforts across the region, strengthening conservation capacity.
Temperature extremes and variability might be worst for the most vulnerable baby birds - the youngest, smallest, and most neglected nestlings - per study of 113 baby barn swallows in Colorado
A study of 113 baby barn swallows in Colorado found that temperature extremes and variability negatively impact the youngest, smallest, and most neglected nestlings. The research suggests that developmental constraints play a crucial role in determining the effects of temperature on nestling growth.
Scientists debunk long-standing myth about how cuckoos lay their eggs
A new study provides the first direct evidence of cuckoo egg-laying behaviour in cavity nests, rejecting a centuries-old myth about egg-carrying. Cuckoos use two distinct strategies to parasitize host nests, involving trade-offs between accuracy and risk.
Disabled parrot is undefeated alpha male of his group thanks to novel “beak jousting”
A study shows how a kea parrot with a missing upper beak uses innovative fighting techniques to dominate his group and gain social status. He achieves this through 'beak jousting,' which proves more effective than other methods, leading to improved health benefits and social recognition.
Birds caught stealing from their neighbors
A new study reveals that birds in Hawaiian forests engage in kleptoparasitism, stealing materials from neighboring nests. The behavior, common among the scarlet I'iwi and crimson Apapane, could threaten species already under stress due to habitat loss and climate change.
Birds that put more energy into parenthood age faster
Researchers found that birds that put more energy into raising their young live shorter lives. After selective breeding, females who produced larger eggs aged faster and died about 20% younger than those that laid smaller eggs.
Sunbirds suck their nectar, in dramatic contrast to hummingbirds, which sop it up
A new study reveals that sunbirds employ tongue suction to slurp nectar, a novel mechanism in vertebrates. This finding highlights the power of convergent evolution, where different species adapt to similar ecological challenges in distinct ways.
Personality shapes survival as wildlife faces growing human pressure
A new study reveals that risk-prone animals tend to stay near human activity, while more cautious individuals avoid humans and survive longer. This finding highlights the importance of individual behavior in adapting to human-driven environmental change.
Newly documented trophic relationship confirmed through video evidence of Adélie penguins
Adélie penguins have been found to consume shelled pteropods as an opportunistic prey, highlighting a previously underdocumented trophic relationship in the Southern Ocean. The study provides valuable insights into the penguins' foraging behavior and its potential implications for the ecosystem.
Isolated fragments of quality habitat insufficient for forest bird conservation, research shows
A study of 50 datasets from over 1,000 individual parcels of tropical and subtropical forest found that avian species richness declines when habitat patches are surrounded by inhospitable areas. In contrast, modest tree cover in the surrounding landscape significantly increases the conservation value of small forest fragments.
We have just 20 years to stop spiraling decline in British biodiversity
A new study warns of a 20-year window to act on climate and land use policies to prevent further biodiversity loss in Britain. Sustainable practices like strong emissions action and reduced meat consumption could save up to 69 fewer species from extinction.
40 migratory animal species receive new or upgraded protection at close of UN meeting in Brazil
Parties to the Convention on Migratory Species agree to list 40 additional species on Appendices I and II, including iconic species like cheetahs, hyenas, and great hammerhead sharks. The agreement also includes multi-species conservation plans for key regions like the Amazon.
Study in search of a tropical spring is the first to show some birds flip their breeding season in response to climate
A team of researchers, led by Felicity Newell, tracked over 8,000 birds in Peru's cloud forests and found that breeding times vary significantly due to changing environmental conditions. The results suggest a more complex response to climate change than previously thought.
New UN-backed atlas maps migratory lifelines of highly vulnerable bird species across the americas
The Americas Flyways Atlas charts critical habitats spanning 56 countries, revealing key breeding, stopover, and wintering sites for 89 highly vulnerable migratory bird species. The atlas provides governments with a blueprint to protect these birds from habitat loss, infrastructure, and climate change.
Global initiative to address mounting pressures from illegal and unsustainable taking of migratory species announced at UN wildlife conference
The Global Initiative on the Taking of Migratory Species (GTI) aims to tackle the root causes of illegal and unsustainable taking, safeguarding wildlife and livelihoods. The initiative focuses on improving data, strengthening laws, engaging communities, and raising awareness.
Birds do it, bees do it … sip alcohol, that is
A study by University of California, Berkeley biologists found detectable alcohol in at least one flower of 26 of the 29 species of plants tested. Hummingbirds and other animals consume small doses throughout the day without apparent effects, but may metabolize ethanol like mammals do.
BGU study reveals road noise compromises nearly half of Israel’s open spaces for nesting birds
A BGU study uses 'soundscape mapping' to quantify the impact of road noise on bird habitats, revealing massive habitat loss and protected areas under threat. The research suggests integrating noise mitigation technologies into environmental planning to protect biodiversity.
Amid new findings that more migratory species of animals are facing extinction nations gather in Brazil to agree on actions
Nations are coming together at the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) to address declining population trends and extinction threats among migratory species. The meeting aims to establish conservation policies and protections for over 2,000 species under threat.
Long-term road surveys reveal widespread declines in South African birds of prey
A comprehensive study reveals substantial declines in many South African raptor and large terrestrial bird species over the past 16 years. Researchers detected sharp declines in threatened and iconic raptors, including the Endangered Secretarybird, highlighting the vulnerability of species dependent on multiple regions.
New rare bird species discovered in Japan
A new species of leaf warbler, Tokara Leaf Warbler, has been discovered in Japan through DNA analysis. The species is found only on two island groups and is considered vulnerable due to low genetic diversity and potential population declines.
Researchers show dinos hatched eggs less efficiently than modern birds
Researchers in Taiwan studied oviraptor incubation patterns, finding that oviraptors used the sun's warmth to hatch eggs, unlike modern birds. This study sheds light on the evolution of avian-style incubation and reveals that oviraptors may not have been as efficient at hatching eggs as modern birds.
Microbial clues uncover how wild songbirds respond to stress
A study by Florida Atlantic University researchers has uncovered the impact of stress on wild songbirds, finding that even mild challenges can alter the gut microbiome, leading to changes in health indicators such as beak color and stress hormone levels.
Island birds reveal surprising link between immunity and gut bacteria
Researchers studied the Seychelles warbler's gut bacteria, finding that immune genes influence which microbes thrive, and that this relationship affects host health and survival. The study suggests a two-way relationship between immune genes and gut bacteria, with potential benefits for human health and disease prevention.
Climate extremes hinder early development in young birds
Research finds extreme cold and rain reduce young bird growth and survival, but earlier breeding can mitigate these effects. In contrast, hot extremes can boost growth by increasing insect activity and visibility.
Convergence in the Canopy: Why the Gracixalus weii treefrog sounds like a songbird
Researchers found that Gracixalus weii treefrog's call is similar to a bird-like chirp of the Black-Breasted Thrush, highlighting the evolution of acoustic symbols in amphibians influenced by ecological interactions with birds. This phenomenon provides a reliable alternative to morphological or molecular diagnosis for cryptic species
The ‘Great Texas Freeze’ killed thousands of purple martins; biologists worry recovery could take decades
A recent study led by UMass-Amherst biologists found that the 2021 Great Texas Freeze killed up to 27% of purple martins' breeding population, with effects felt for decades. The study also revealed that the affected birds delayed reproduction and hatched fewer chicks, and their population is already declining in Texas and Louisiana.
Share of migratory wild animal species with declining populations despite UN treaty protections worsens from 44% to 49% in two years; 24% face extinction, up 2%
The interim update to the State of the World's Migratory Species report warns that 49% of migratory species populations are declining, with 24% facing extinction, due to habitat loss and overexploitation. The report highlights the need for coordinated international action to address these threats and protect migratory species.
Duke-NUS scientists identify more effective way to detect poultry viruses in live markets
Researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School found that testing air and surfaces can detect a broader range of poultry viruses, including highly pathogenic avian influenza strains, which traditional surveillance may miss. Environmental sampling can provide a more comprehensive view of viral circulation in live poultry markets.
Two new bird species from the Amazon Basin described based on bioacoustics and morphological data
Scientists have identified five distinct species of antbirds, including two new species, by integrating AI, vocal analysis, and traditional museum work. The study reveals that populations separated by major Amazonian rivers have evolved into distinct species.
Jackdaw chicks listen to adults to learn about predators
Researchers found that jackdaw chicks learned to associate predator sounds with danger when paired with adult alarm calls, becoming more vigilant. However, they did not learn from contact calls or a non-predatory birdcall, suggesting an evolutionary process to ensure only biologically meaningful links are learned.
Hotspots of accelerated bird decline linked to agricultural activity
Researchers found that agriculture intensity is the main driver of accelerated bird decline in three regions. The study analyzed data from the North American Breeding Bird Survey and estimated a 15% total loss of bird abundance across North America over 35 years.
Shorter early-life telomere length as a predictor of survival
A new study reveals that shorter early-life telomeres are associated with higher survival rates in black-legged kittiwakes. In contrast, larger individuals tend to have shorter telomeres, suggesting a trade-off between growth and telomere maintenance.
Indigenous Peoples and local communities in three continents report a drastic decline in bird body mass
A global study documents the collective ecological memory of Indigenous Peoples and local communities, revealing a consistent pattern of large-bodied bird species disappearing from local environments replaced by smaller-bodied species, with average bird mass declining from 1500g to 535g over eight decades.
Seabird poop could have been used to fertilize Peru's Chincha Valley by at least 1250 CE, potentially facilitating the expansion of its pre-Inca society
Researchers suggest that seabirds were used to fertilize Peru's Chincha Valley as early as 1250 CE, potentially supporting the growth of a pre-Inca society. This ancient practice could have played a significant role in the region's agricultural development.
Noise pollution is affecting birds' reproduction, stress levels and more. The good news is we can fix it.
New research reveals that anthropogenic noise impacts bird behavior, physiology, and reproduction, highlighting the need for solutions to reduce and manage noise. By synthesizing data from over 150 studies, the study identifies predictable effects of noise pollution on birds, including increased stress hormones in urban areas.
Avian malaria widespread across Hawaiʻi bird communities, new UH study finds
A new study found avian malaria at 63 of 64 sites tested statewide, including areas with diverse bird communities. This suggests that many different bird species in Hawaiʻi—both native and non-native—are capable of infecting southern house mosquitoes, the primary vector of avian malaria.
Planting tree belts on wet farmland comes with an overlooked trade-off
A study found that shelterbelts in agricultural wetland landscapes reduce grassland species and wetland biodiversity, creating a trade-off for bird communities. The research suggests that agri-environmental policies must balance structural complexity with ecological needs of open-habitat species.
Scientists trace ancient bird flight paths using modern plant diversity
Scientists discovered a significant portion of plant diversity on Hispaniola originated from eastern Cuba, tracing back to 1.6 million-year-old bird dispersal events. The findings highlight the importance of birds as primary seed dispersers in this biodiversity hotspot, which faces extensive habitat loss.
H5N1 causes die-off of Antarctic skuas, a seabird
The high pathogenicity avian influenza virus H5N1 has caused the death of over 50 skuas in Antarctica, marking the first documented case of wildlife mortality due to the virus on the continent. The study found that the virus was primarily affecting the South Shetland Islands and Antarctic Peninsula.
Are returning Pumas putting Patagonian Penguins at risk? New study reveals the likelihood
A new study reveals that more than 7,000 adult Magellanic penguins were killed by pumas in just four years, posing a significant threat to the penguin population. The research suggests that high puma predation rates could exacerbate reproductive decline and juvenile mortality, ultimately putting the colony at risk of extinction.
The earliest known bird had complex tongue bones and fleshy “teeth” on the roof of its mouth—which might have helped it snag the food it needed for flight
The earliest known bird, Archaeopteryx, had unique mouth features such as oral papillae, tongue bones, and bill-tip organs. These structures suggest that early birds evolved specialized ways to find and digest food efficiently, which is key to flight. The discovery provides new criteria for identifying dinosaur fossils as birds.
January research news from the Ecological Society of America
A recent study published by the Ecological Society of America highlights the impact of rainstorms on environmental DNA in streams. Researchers found that rainfall can wash away genetic material from land-based species and deposit it into nearby waterways, providing a fuller picture of who is present. In another study, scientists discov...
Scientists just mapped the family tree of all 11,000 bird species—and you can explore it
The new tool offers a comprehensive phylogenetic dataset that syncs with current taxonomy, allowing users to trace any bird's lineage and explore major evolutionary milestones. Birders can also visualize their eBird life list in context of bird orders, families, and genera.
The world’s most accurate model for predicting bird occurrence is based on the pioneering work of 300,000 mobile app users in Finland
A team of researchers led by Academy Professor Otso Ovaskainen has developed a prediction model that utilizes citizen bird observations alongside cutting-edge information technology. The new model provides the most accurate predictions yet of bird movements and singing activity, enabling anyone to participate in research.
Living walls boost biodiversity by providing safe spaces for urban wildlife
A new study has found that living walls can significantly enhance urban biodiversity by attracting pollinators and other wildlife. The research revealed that soil-based living walls with plants in soil attracted more wildlife than those with artificial substrates, and specific plant species like ivy and honeysuckle were most effective.
A two-week leap in breeding: Antarctic penguins’ striking climate adaptation
A decade-long study found that Antarctic penguin species are adapting to a changing environment by advancing their breeding seasons. Gentoo penguins showed the greatest change, with an average advance of 13 days per decade, making them vulnerable to declining food availability and ecosystem collapse.
The American Ornithological Society (AOS) announces the winner of the 2025 Wesley Lanyon Award
Dr. Bryce W. Robinson has won the 2025 AOS Wesley Lanyon Award for his review paper on plumage polymorphism in raptors, published in Ornithology. The award recognizes his synthesis of existing literature and articulation of hypotheses to uncover previously obscure patterns.
Nightingales strike the right chord
Researchers found that male nightingales precisely match pitch, but also adjust note length to achieve a trade-off strategy. They exhibit flexibility in how closely they match pitch versus duration depending on the combination heard. This ability requires rapid processing and neural flexibility.
Birding enthusiasts can help songbirds avoid salmonella epidemics
Researchers developed a tool to predict when deadly salmonella outbreaks are likely to happen in wild songbird populations, allowing people to protect their feathered friends. The system is based on climate patterns, tree cone production, and avian migrations.
Expansion of the Chinese hwamei, an invasive alien species, into alpine habitats in Japan: First record of songs
The Chinese hwamei, an invasive alien bird species, has expanded into Japan's mountainous regions, including alpine zones. The study found that it breeds in these areas during the summer and migrates to lower elevations in winter.