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Field notes » April 2012

April 2012

We tell stories that transport readers into nature with a range of timely topics and perspectives. From science and conservation to humor and awe, we share insights that encourage people to care about birds and the world they inhabit.

These observations and anecdotes are meant to inform, entertain and increase the choir for conservation. If there is a topic that you’d like us to explore, please contact us.

Take A Tour!

After seven years on the air, BirdNote has built itself a new nest! But don’t expect a pile of mud and sticks here – the new BirdNote.org is chock full of new features. Check out galleries of bird images and videos, a fully searchable archive of hundreds of BirdNote shows, and the BirdNote blog.... read more »

Migration

Migration happens once every year. And then again maybe six months later.Depending on several factors, at most times of the year, there are many birds on the move. Some are merely altitudinal migrants, descending when the weather turns fowl in the mountains. The large majority undertake a twice... read more »

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Topics & Themes:  migration
Related birds:  Sooty Shearwater (Puffinus griseus), Arctic Tern (Sterna paradisaea), Bar-tailed Godwit (Limosa lapponica)

Birds' Senses

I have been asked how birds that feed by probing in mud locate their food – Which of their senses are they using?They are using the exact sense you would use, whether probing with your fingers or your nose – the sense of touch. Most of the birds that probe in mud for prey are sandpipers, varying... read more »

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Topics & Themes:  science
Related birds:  Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura), Dunlin (Calidris alpina), Marbled Godwit (Limosa fedoa)

BirdNote Theme Song - Where Did it Come From?

Since BirdNote debuted in February 2005, many listeners have asked about the source of our theme music. What is the name of the piece? Where is it from? How can I purchase it?It may surprise you to learn that the BirdNote theme is not a snippet from a longer piece. It was composed especially for... read more »

Tweets 'n' Squawks: Learn How to Identify Birds by Song

Nothing signals spring quite like singing birds. As the length of days increase, male birds begin to sing to protect their territories from neighboring males and advertise their presence to nearby females. In spring, those males are vibrantly colored and may be easy to see, because they... read more »

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Topics & Themes:  birdwatching by ear, sound, vocalization