Published by John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, Amanda Marquart
Education
Science
Nature
Birds of a Feather Talk Together is a birding and birdwatching podcast for beginners and experts alike, blending expert ornithology with curiosity, storytelling, humor, and real-time discovery. Hosted from Chicago by married Field Museum ornithologists and curators John Bates and Shannon Hackett, alongside birding enthusiasts RJ and Amanda Pole, the podcast explores the fascinating world of birds through conversations that are educational, approachable, and fun. Each episode dives into bird behavior, bird migration, bird identification, bird songs and calls, backyard birds, conservation, bird intelligence, evolution, ecology, and the science behind how birds live and adapt. From hummingbirds, owls, woodpeckers, warblers, and herons to rare bird sightings, viral bird stories, and surprising animal behavior, every episode uncovers something remarkable about the natural world. What makes the show unique is the mix of professional scientists and newer birders learning in real time together. Whether you’re an experienced birder, a casual birdwatcher, or completely new to birding, the conversations are designed to make ornithology accessible and engaging without losing the depth of the science. The podcast regularly features stories and research connected to the Field Museum, listener-submitted bird sightings, birding adventures, wildlife conservation topics, and current events from across the birding world. If you love birds, birdwatching, nature podcasts, wildlife, science storytelling, animal behavior, or simply want to better understand the birds around you, Birds of a Feather Talk Together will help you see the natural world in a whole new way.
155: Noisy Miners: Australia's Most Aggressive Bird? 🐦
This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together , we're traveling to Australia to explore one of the country's most fascinating—and controversial—birds: the Noisy Miner. John recently encountered Noisy Miners during his birding trip to Australia, and after watching their remarkable behavior firsthand, we knew we had to dedicate an episode to them. These highly social birds are famous for their loud calls, complex family groups, and surprisingly aggressive behavior toward other birds. Field Museum ornithologists and Curators of Birds John Bates and Shannon Hackett join RJ and Amanda Pole to dive into Noisy Miner behavior, Australian birds, bird communication, territoriality, cooperative breeding, and why this species has become one of the most fascinating birds in Australia. John also shares stories from his recent birding adventures in Australia, including firsthand encounters with Noisy Miners and what makes seeing them in the wild such an unforgettable experience. To wrap up the episode, we answer a listener mailbag question about noise pollution and its effects on birds. Whether you're interested in Australian birds, bird behavior, wildlife science, ornithology, bird communication, or simply love learning about some of the world's most remarkable species, this episode is packed with fascinating bird facts and unforgettable stories. If you love birding, birdwatching, Australian wildlife, bird behavior, bird identification, conservation, ornithology, and nature podcasts, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
154: Chimney Swifts: The Birds That Almost Never Stop Flying 🐦
How long can a bird stay in the air without landing? This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together , we're diving into the incredible world of the Chimney Swift—one of North America's most unique birds. These aerial specialists spend nearly their entire lives on the wing, eating, drinking, courting, and even collecting nesting material while flying. Outside of nesting and nighttime roosts, they rarely land at all. And when they finally do stop flying, they don't perch on branches like most birds. Instead, their long, specialized claws allow them to cling to the vertical walls of chimneys, hollow trees, caves, and other upright surfaces, making them unlike almost any other bird you'll encounter. Field Museum ornithologists and Curators of Birds John Bates and Shannon Hackett join RJ and Amanda Pole to explore the remarkable adaptations that allow Chimney Swifts to live almost entirely in the sky. We discuss their migration, nesting behavior, conservation challenges, and why these fascinating birds have become so closely associated with human-made chimneys. Along the way, the conversation takes a few unexpected turns. We discuss how wildfire smoke can affect birds and bird migration, the impacts of climate change on wildlife, the surprising history behind bird's nest soup, and answer a follow-up listener mailbag question inspired by our recent Carolina Wren episode. Whether you're a lifelong birder or just discovering the incredible birds flying overhead every summer evening, this episode is full of fascinating bird science, ornithology, and plenty of fun detours. If you enjoy birding, birdwatching, bird behavior, bird migration, backyard birds, wildlife science, conservation, and nature podcasts, subscribe for new episodes every week. Topics covered: Chimney Swifts Bird flight adaptations Bird migration Nesting behavior Chimneys and vertical roosting Wildfire smoke and birds Climate change Bird's nest soup Carolina Wren mailbag Ornithology and bird conservation Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
153: Slate-throated Redstart (or Whitestart) with David Vander Pluym
This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together , we're joined by ornithologist David Vander Pluym to explore a fascinating bird from Central America and South America: the Slate-throated Redstart—also known as the Slate-throated Whitestart. David is a graduate student at the Louisiana State University Museum of Natural Science whose research focuses on bird ecology and migration. Before beginning graduate school, he spent years studying birds along the Colorado River in Arizona and California, and he now researches the remarkable altitudinal migration of the Slate-throated Redstart. Together, we discuss why this colorful bird may now be called the Slate-throated Whitestart, what scientists have learned about its behavior and habitat, and how birds can migrate not just across continents, but up and down mountains in response to changing seasons. Field Museum ornithologists and Curators of Birds John Bates and Shannon Hackett join RJ Pole and Amanda Pole for a fascinating conversation about tropical birds, mountain ecosystems, bird migration, evolution, bird taxonomy, and ornithological research. We also catch up with David about this year's Birds of a Feather March Madness Bird Tournament. As one of the LSU graduate students who helped vote throughout the competition, he shares his thoughts on one of the tournament's biggest fan favorites—the Club-winged Manakin—and his opinion might surprise you. Whether you're interested in bird migration, tropical birds, ornithology, bird evolution, scientific research, or discovering beautiful species you've never heard of, this episode is packed with fascinating bird science and unforgettable stories from the field. If you love birding, birdwatching, bird behavior, tropical birds, migration, ornithology, wildlife science, bird evolution, and nature podcasts, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
152: Carolina Wrens: Why One of North America's Loudest Little Birds Deserves Your Love 🐦
This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together , we're taking a closer look at one of North America's most energetic and recognizable backyard birds: the Carolina Wren. This episode was inspired by listener Rebekah, who wrote to us asking if we could convince her to appreciate Carolina Wrens a little more. Like many birders, she noticed just how loud these tiny birds can be around your house—and wondered what makes them so special. Challenge accepted! Field Museum ornithologists and Curators of Birds John Bates and Shannon Hackett join RJ and Amanda Pole to explore everything that makes the Carolina Wren such a remarkable species. We discuss Carolina Wren behavior, bird songs and calls, habitat, nesting, bird identification, migration, and the fascinating adaptations that have helped these charismatic songbirds thrive across much of the eastern United States. Along the way, we explain why Carolina Wrens seem so much louder than their size would suggest, what makes their personalities so memorable, and why they've become favorites among backyard birdwatchers. We also touch on the recent surge of interest in wrens, as these tiny birds continue to capture the attention of birders and nature lovers alike. Whether you're a lifelong birder, just getting started with birdwatching, or simply curious about the birds visiting your backyard, this episode is packed with fascinating bird science, ornithology, bird behavior, and fun facts that may just change the way you think about Carolina Wrens. If you love birding, birdwatching, backyard birds, songbirds, bird identification, bird behavior, ornithology, wildlife science, and nature podcasts, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
151: Black-billed Cuckoos: One of North America's Most Mysterious Birds 🐦
This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together , we explore one of North America's most secretive and fascinating birds: the Black-billed Cuckoo. Often heard more than seen, Black-billed Cuckoos are mysterious forest birds known for their elusive behavior, unique adaptations, and surprising diet. In this episode, we dive into what makes this species so unusual, from its preference for hairy caterpillars that many other birds avoid to its remarkable migration and nesting behaviors. Field Museum ornithologists and Curators of Birds John Bates and Shannon Hackett join RJ and Amanda Pole to discuss Black-billed Cuckoo behavior, bird identification, migration, habitat, evolution, bird vocalizations, and why these birds remain one of North America's most intriguing songbirds. We also explore the fascinating role Black-billed Cuckoos play in forest ecosystems, how they compare to other cuckoo species around the world, and why even experienced birders consider spotting one a special experience. Whether you're a lifelong birder, just getting into birdwatching, or simply curious about the hidden lives of birds, this episode is packed with fascinating bird science, ornithology, wildlife conservation, and unforgettable bird facts. If you love birding, birdwatching, cuckoos, bird behavior, bird migration, songbirds, ornithology, wildlife science, and nature podcasts, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Tags black billed cuckoo, black-billed cuckoo, cuckoo bird, birding, birdwatching, bird behavior, bird migration, bird identification, north american birds, songbirds, ornithology, wildlife podcast, bird podcast, bird facts, migration birds, forest birds, nature podcast, wildlife science, bird vocalizations, backyard birding Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
150: California Condors with Christian Flores - The Incredible Comeback of North America's Largest Bird 🦅
This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together , we're joined by zoologist and science communicator Christian Flores (better known as @crikeyitschristian ) for a deep dive into one of the greatest conservation success stories in modern history: the California Condor. Once soaring alongside mammoths, saber-toothed cats, giant ground sloths, and other Ice Age megafauna, California Condors have survived for tens of thousands of years—only to come perilously close to extinction in the 1980s. In this episode, we explore how one of North America's most iconic birds was saved through one of the most ambitious wildlife recovery programs ever attempted. Field Museum ornithologists and Curators of Birds John Bates and Shannon Hackett join RJ and Amanda Pole alongside Christian to discuss California Condor biology, evolution, scavenger ecology, conservation science, captive breeding, reintroduction programs, lead poisoning, and why these magnificent birds remain one of the greatest symbols of wildlife recovery. We also dive into the Condor's incredible evolutionary history, what North America looked like when they shared the landscape with mammoths and saber-toothed cats, and how scientists and conservationists are working to ensure their future. Whether you're a birder, wildlife enthusiast, conservation supporter, or simply fascinated by incredible animal comeback stories, this episode is packed with bird science, natural history, evolution, and inspiring conservation success. If you love birding, birdwatching, endangered species, wildlife conservation, evolution, ornithology, paleontology, rewilding, and fascinating bird facts, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Follow our guest Christian Flores for more wildlife content and science communication: Instagram: @crikeyitschristian Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
We're officially back with a brand-new episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together ! After a short break, the full crew returns to catch up on birding adventures, international travel, spring migration, and some exciting personal updates. Field Museum ornithologists and curators of birds John Bates and Shannon Hackett join RJ and Amanda Pole for a wide-ranging conversation that takes us from Australia and New Zealand all the way back to Chicago. John shares stories from his recent travels across three countries, including incredible birding experiences in Australia and New Zealand. We discuss some of the remarkable birds he encountered, what makes birding in those regions so unique, and the unforgettable wildlife, habitats, and birding adventures he experienced along the way. We also get an inspiring update from Shannon on her cochlear implant journey. Shannon shares some of the latest progress in her hearing restoration, how cochlear implant technology continues to change her daily life, and what it's been like rediscovering sounds as both a scientist and lifelong birder. For anyone interested in hearing loss, audiology, cochlear implants, accessibility, or birding with hearing challenges, this is a fascinating and personal conversation. Back home, RJ and Amanda share highlights from spring migration in Chicago, including some of the exciting birds they encountered during one of the best times of year for birdwatching in North America. We also answer a listener mailbag question about Ruby-crowned Kinglets and Golden-crowned Kinglets, leading to a discussion about bird identification, sexual dimorphism, crown patches, and why males and females can sometimes look so different. If you've ever wondered how to tell these tiny songbirds apart or why some birds display dramatic differences between the sexes, you'll enjoy this fascinating bird science conversation. If you love birding, birdwatching, Australia birds, New Zealand birds, kinglets, bird migration, wildlife travel, ornithology, cochlear implants, hearing restoration, bird behavior, and fascinating bird stories from around the world, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
148: Club-Winged Manakins: The Bird of the Year That Makes Music With Its Wings 🐦🎵
This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together , we're revisiting one of the most extraordinary birds we've ever covered—and the official winner of our 2026 Bird of the Year tournament: the Club-winged Manakin. While we're getting ready to return with brand-new episodes next week, we couldn't resist taking another look at the bird that captured the hearts of our listeners and earned the title of 2026 Bird of the Year. Native to the cloud forests of South America, the Club-winged Manakin is famous for producing one of the strangest sounds in the bird world—not with its voice, but with its wings. Through an incredible evolutionary adaptation, male Club-winged Manakins create a high-pitched mechanical sound during courtship displays by rubbing specialized wing feathers together at astonishing speeds. The result sounds more like an insect, a machine, or a science-fiction sound effect than a bird, making it one of the most unique bird behaviors ever discovered. In this episode, Field Museum ornithologists and curators of birds John Bates and Shannon Hackett join RJ and Amanda Pole to discuss Club-winged Manakin behavior, bird evolution, courtship displays, bird sounds, animal communication, and the remarkable adaptations that helped this species earn the title of Bird of the Year. The journey to the championship was a fun one. Students from LSU joined in voting throughout our Bird of the Year tournament, with results revealed across multiple episodes. In the end, the Club-winged Manakin emerged as the champion, defeating a field of incredible birds to claim the crown. If you love birding, birdwatching, weird birds, bird behavior, bird evolution, tropical birds, ornithology, wildlife science, and fascinating bird facts, this is an episode you won't want to miss! Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
147: Peter Kaestner: The First Birder to See 10,000 Bird Species in the Wild 🐦
This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together , we're revisiting one of our favorite interviews with legendary birder Peter Kaestner—the first person in history to see more than 10,000 bird species in the wild. While John continues his birding adventures in New Zealand and Australia, we thought it was the perfect time to revisit this incredible conversation. Peter recently came up on the podcast when Shannon recognized one of his recordings of a Rwenzori Turaco, reminding us just how remarkable his birding journey has been. Peter is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished birders in the world. Over decades of global travel, he has observed more bird species than anyone else in history, visiting remote corners of the planet in pursuit of rare birds, endemic species, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Field Museum ornithologists and curators of birds John Bates and Shannon Hackett join RJ and Amanda Pole to talk with Peter about world birding, bird identification, rare birds, international birding travel, conservation, and the adventures that come with a lifetime spent exploring the natural world. From incredible sightings and close calls to lessons learned from thousands of birding expeditions, Peter shares fascinating stories, hard-earned wisdom, and a passion for birds that is impossible not to appreciate. If you love birding, birdwatching, rare birds, wildlife travel, ornithology, bird conservation, bird identification, and extraordinary birding stories from around the world, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
146: Blue-Gray Gnatcatchers: The Tiny Bird That's Always on the Move 🐦
This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together , we're revisiting one of our favorite episodes about the Blue-gray Gnatcatcher—one of North America's smallest, busiest, and most beloved songbirds. While John is off birding in New Zealand and Australia, we're taking a look back at this conversation about a bird that perfectly captures what makes birdwatching so rewarding. Blue-gray Gnatcatchers may be tiny, but their energetic behavior, buzzy calls, and constant movement make them unforgettable once you start noticing them. When we originally recorded this episode, we talked about how special it would be to spend a day surrounded by Blue-gray Gnatcatchers and how important it is not to take those moments in nature for granted. Recently, that exact experience happened again, serving as a reminder of one of the best lessons birding can teach us: slow down, pay attention, and appreciate the birds around you. In this episode, Field Museum ornithologists and curators of birds John Bates and Shannon Hackett join RJ and Amanda Pole to discuss Blue-gray Gnatcatcher behavior, bird identification, migration, habitat, nesting, bird songs and calls, and why these tiny birds are such favorites among birders. We also answer a listener mailbag question about vultures and condors, exploring the fascinating world of scavenging birds and their important role in ecosystems. If you love birding, birdwatching, songbirds, backyard birds, bird behavior, bird identification, vultures, condors, ornithology, wildlife science, and fascinating bird facts, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
145: Rwenzori Turacos: One of Africa’s Most Beautiful and Colorful Birds 🐦
This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together , we explore one of the most spectacular birds in Africa: the Rwenzori Turaco. Chosen by Shannon, this stunning bird is famous for its brilliant colors, striking crest, and almost unbelievable appearance. If you’ve never seen a Rwenzori Turaco before, you may want to look up a photo right now—its vibrant plumage makes it one of the most beautiful birds in the world and a favorite among birders, wildlife photographers, and ornithologists alike. John also shares stories from his birding adventures in Africa, including what it was like to see Rwenzori Turacos in the wild. The conversation expands into African birding, tropical forests, wildlife encounters, and the incredible diversity of birds found across the continent. Field Museum ornithologists and curators of birds John Bates and Shannon Hackett join RJ and Amanda Pole to discuss Rwenzori Turaco behavior, habitat, bird identification, evolution, and what makes turacos such unique birds within the avian world. Whether you're fascinated by exotic birds, dreaming of birding in Africa, or simply love learning about beautiful and unusual species, this episode is packed with bird facts, ornithology, wildlife science, and unforgettable birding stories. If you love birding, birdwatching, African birds, tropical birds, bird behavior, ornithology, wildlife travel, conservation, and fascinating bird facts, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
144: Black-and-White Warblers: The Tiny Tree-Climbing Warbler that Birders Love 🐦
This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together , we explore the fascinating world of the Black-and-white Warbler—one of the most unique and behaviorally unusual warblers in North America. Unlike most warblers that hop through leaves and branches, Black-and-white Warblers climb tree trunks and branches much like nuthatches or woodpeckers, making them instantly recognizable to birders once you know what to look for. Their bold black-and-white striped plumage, energetic movements, and distinctive behavior make them one of the most charming songbirds in the forest. This episode was inspired by listener Kelsey, who asked us to do a full deep dive into these amazing birds—and we had a blast discussing them. Field Museum ornithologists and curators of birds John Bates and Shannon Hackett join RJ and Amanda Pole to discuss Black-and-white Warbler behavior, migration, bird identification, foraging strategies, habitat, bird songs and calls, and why this species stands out among North American warblers. If you love birding, birdwatching, warblers, songbirds, bird behavior, ornithology, migration, wildlife science, and fascinating bird facts, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
143: Pink-headed Fruit Dove: One of the Most Beautiful Doves in the World 🐦
This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together , we’re talking about one of the most beautiful doves in the world: the Pink-headed Fruit Dove. Native to the mountain forests of Indonesia, the Pink-headed Fruit Dove is known for its stunning pink head and chest, vibrant green body, and striking necklace-like markings. Because these birds live in remote high-elevation habitats, they haven’t been studied as extensively as many other bird species, which makes them even more fascinating to explore. Shannon picked this week’s bird—unsurprisingly, because she loves the color pink—and the conversation quickly turned into an appreciation of just how incredible and unusual this species really is. We discuss the dove’s appearance, habitat, behavior, and why tropical birds like this capture so much imagination among birders and ornithologists alike. We also answer a listener mailbag question from Kelsey about the Black-and-white Warbler, including bird behavior and identification tips related to this unique species. As always, it’s married ornithologists and curators of birds at the Field Museum John Bates and Shannon Hackett, alongside RJ and Amanda Pole learning right along with you. If you love birding, birdwatching, tropical birds, rare birds, bird behavior, ornithology, wildlife, and fascinating bird facts, this is a really fun episode you won’t want to miss. Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
142: Costa's Hummingbird - Is Their Range Expanding? A Listener Request!
This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together , we’re diving into one of the most dazzling birds in North America—the Costa’s Hummingbird . After a listener wrote in with a question, we decided this tiny desert specialist deserved a full episode—and it does not disappoint. From its iridescent purple crown to its high-speed aerial displays, the Costa’s Hummingbird is a master of survival in some of the harshest environments. We explore its unique behavior, desert habitat, feeding strategies, and what makes it stand out among hummingbirds. We also revisit the Black-backed Woodpecker , connecting back to our earlier episode with Ryan, who shared his experience birding on the autism spectrum. That conversation opened up an important discussion about how birding can be more inclusive—and how the birding community can create space for everyone to enjoy nature in their own way. Whether you're a beginner learning your first birds or a seasoned birder looking to go deeper, this episode blends science, storytelling, and real-world perspectives. As always, it’s married ornithologists and Field Museum curators John Bates and Shannon Hackett , alongside birding enthusiasts RJ and Amanda Pole , bringing you birds through both expert insight and curious discovery. Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
141: Black-backed Woodpeckers with Ryan Shostack And Making Birding More Inclusive
This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together , we’re joined by birder Ryan Shostack to talk about the incredible Black-backed Woodpecker—and how birding can be more inclusive for everyone. The Black-backed Woodpecker is a fascinating species known for its unique relationship with burned forests, and Ryan shares his firsthand experiences seeing this bird multiple times in the wild. We explore its behavior, habitat, and why it’s such a special find for birders. Ryan also opens up about his experience birding on the autism spectrum (including Asperger’s), and what birding means to him. It leads to a thoughtful and honest conversation about accessibility, inclusion, and how the birding community can better support people of all backgrounds and abilities. With Shannon’s own experience with hearing loss, this is a topic we’ve been wanting to explore for a while—and this conversation really delivers. We also go on a few fun tangents (including wolves), making this a wide-ranging and meaningful episode. As always, it’s Field Museum ornithologists John Bates and Shannon Hackett, alongside RJ and Amanda learning right along with you. If you’re interested in birding, bird behavior, inclusion in nature, or just love great conversations about the outdoors—this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
140: Round Robin Championship, also Rusty Blackbirds, Brown-headed Cowbirds, and The Reiser Brothers Visit The Field Museum
This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together , we’re diving into stories about two fascinating (and very different) blackbirds: the Rusty Blackbird and the Brown-headed Cowbird. The Rusty Blackbird is one of the fastest-declining bird species in North America , and we explore what makes this bird so unique, and RJ and Amanda's recent sighting of them. Then we shift to the Brown-headed Cowbird, one of the most controversial birds in birding, known for its unusual nesting behavior and brood parasitism. We also reveal the Final Four results of our Bird Championship tournament. Plus, we officially announce our Bird of the Year , and break down how it all played out. And in a really fun behind-the-scenes moment, we hear about the Listers filmmakers, the Reiser brothers, visiting John and Shannon at the Field Museum. As always, it’s married ornithologists and Field Museum curators John Bates and Shannon Hackett, alongside RJ and Amanda learning right along with you. Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
139: Green Heron Explained: The Bird That Uses Tools to Catch Fish 🐦
Learn about the Green Heron, one of the only birds known to use tools to hunt, and how it uses bait to catch fish. This birding and birdwatching podcast explores heron behavior, wetland habitats, and surprising bird intelligence for beginners and experts alike. We also share a really special moment—RJ and Amanda came across a Green Heron nest and got to see a group of baby herons up close, which led to some fun conversation about nesting behavior, habitat, and what makes these birds so unique. If you’re into birding, birdwatching, backyard wildlife, or just love learning about surprising animal behavior, this is a super fun episode you won’t want to miss. As always, it’s married ornithologists and Field Museum curators John Bates and Shannon Hackett, alongside RJ and Amanda learning right along with you. Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
138: Why Long-Eared Owls Roost in HUGE Groups 🦉 | Bird Behavior Explained
Learn about Long-Eared Owls, one of the most fascinating owl species in birding, and why they gather in massive communal roosts. This birdwatching podcast breaks down owl behavior, migration, and ecology for beginners and experts alike. This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together , we’re diving into one of the most mysterious and underrated owls out there—the Long-eared Owl . Known for its secretive behavior and incredible camouflage, this owl is a true master of staying hidden… until you know where to look. John brings an amazing story from Serbia , where hundreds of Long-eared Owls gather to roost together in one place—an absolutely mind-blowing sight for birders and nature lovers alike. If you’ve ever wondered where to find owls or how they behave in the wild, this episode is packed with fascinating insights. We’re also continuing our March Madness-style Round Robin Bird Tournament , featuring votes and hilarious commentary from Nick Mason’s LSU students , along with our own picks. Who’s advancing? Who’s getting knocked out? You’ll have to listen to find out. As always, the show is hosted by married Field Museum ornithologists and Curators of Birds John Bates and Shannon Hackett , alongside bird enthusiasts RJ and Amanda Pole , blending expert knowledge with beginner curiosity to make birding fun and accessible for everyone. If you love owls, birdwatching, ornithology, wildlife behavior, and fun science-driven conversations , this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 🎧 Listen now and discover why the Long-eared Owl might become your new favorite bird. Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
137: A Rare Arctic Duck Appeared in Europe?! Spectacled Eider Explained
A rare Spectacled Eider showed up far outside its Arctic range—and birders took notice. Learn about eiders, migration patterns, and rare bird sightings in this birding podcast episode. A rare Spectacled Eider sighting in the Netherlands —far outside its normal Arctic range—sparked this week’s episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together. In this episode, we explore all four living species of eiders —from the iconic Common Eider to the stunning King and Spectacled Eiders. Along the way, we break down what makes these Arctic ducks so unique, from their extreme cold-weather adaptations to their fascinating breeding behavior. We’re also kicking off our March Madness-style bird bracket tournament , and we have a special surprise in our bracket challenge! If you love birding, rare bird sightings, ornithology, and fun, science-driven conversations , this is an episode you won’t want to miss. As always it's married couple and ornithologists John Bates and Shannon Hackett and new-ish birders RJ and Amanda Pole. Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
136: Horned Larks with Nick Mason
This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together , we’re joined by Dr. Nick Mason , Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences and Curator of Birds at the Museum of Natural Science at LSU, for an in-depth and engaging conversation all about the fascinating Horned Lark . Widely regarded as one of the world’s leading experts on Horned Larks, Nick brings incredible insight into this unique grassland bird—from its behavior and evolution to what makes it so special among North American birds. With strong ties to hosts John Bates and Shannon Hackett through LSU, this episode is filled with great stories, shared history, and plenty of laughs along the way. Perfect timing, too— the Horned Lark has just been named the ABA Bird of the Year , making this a must-listen for birders and nature lovers alike. If you’re into birding, ornithology, migration, and bird conservation , this episode dives deep into one of the most overlooked yet remarkable birds in North America. Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow: YouTube Instagram TikTok BlueSky
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Observed July 30, 2026.
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