Do birds have ears? You might think about birds like Great Horned Owl, with their ear-like feather tufts. But those aren't ears. What about birds with 'ear' in their name, like the Eared Grebe, named for the golden feathers breeding adults have at the side of the head. Those golden feathers aren't their ears, either.

But of course all birds definitely have ears—they're just not easy to spot. Unlike mammals, birds don’t have external ear flaps (called pinnae). Instead, their ears are small openings located on the sides of their heads, usually hidden under feathers. These openings lead to an internal ear structure that helps them process sound very efficiently.

Most birds rely heavily on their sense of hearing for survival. Whether it's detecting predators, communicating with flock members, or navigating during flight, hearing plays a vital role in their daily lives. Some birds have even evolved specialized adaptations to improve their hearing abilities.

One of the most fascinating examples of this is found in owls. Many owl species have asymmetrical ear openings, with their ears positioned at different heights on their heads. This unique feature allows them to pinpoint the exact location of a sound in three-dimensional space. When an owl hears a noise, such as the rustling of a mouse in the grass, the sound reaches each ear at slightly different times and volumes. The owl’s brain processes this information to zero in on the prey with incredible accuracy, even in complete darkness.

The shape and placement of feathers around a bird’s face also help with hearing. Again in owls, the facial disc can act like a satellite dish, collecting and funneling sound toward the ears. This gives them an edge in hunting by ear alone.

Birds that live in noisy environments, like cities, may have adapted to filter out background noise. Some songbirds can change the pitch or volume of their calls to be heard over traffic or other urban sounds. 

Not all birds have super-sensitive hearing, though. Species that rely more on sight, like hawks or hummingbirds, may not have the same auditory adaptations as owls or nightjars. But even these birds still depend on their hearing to some extent, for detecting threats, finding mates, or raising chicks.

Interestingly, some studies suggest that certain birds can hear infrasound (very low-frequency sounds), which helps them detect distant storms or earthquakes. Pigeons, for example, might use low-frequency sounds to navigate during long flights. This type of hearing ability is still being researched, but it points to just how diverse and specialized avian hearing can be.

Another cool fact: bird ears are involved in keeping their balance, just like in humans. The inner ear contains structures that help birds stay upright and steady during flight, landings, and perching.

While the ears of birds with feathered heads are not usually visible, the ears, or rather ear holes, on birds with bare heads might be easier to find. Can you spot the ears on these three birds? Do you recognize the species? (Hint: you can click on each bird to learn more).

Australia is famous for its unique wildlife, and its birds are no exception. While many birds are known for their songs and chirps, some Aussie species stand out for their unusual, surprising, or downright strange vocalizations.

Here are four Australian birds you might hear before you see, each with a sound that's anything but ordinary.

😂 Laughing Kookaburra

The Laughing Kookaburra’s call is one of the most iconic sounds of the Australian bush. It starts with a chuckle and builds into full-blown laughter, echoing through forests, suburbs, and even city parks.

Despite its comical sound, this bird is a serious predator, feeding on insects, lizards, and small snakes. Early mornings and evenings are the best times to hear their territorial "laugh battles."

🎧 Sounds like: Maniacal, human-like laughter

🦜 Gang-gang Cockatoo

With a scruffy crest and a cute, chunky beak, the Gang-gang Cockatoo might not look intimidating, but its call is unforgettable. When flying or perched, it makes a sound that many Aussies compare to a creaky door or a cork being pulled from a bottle.

These birds live in cooler forests of southeastern Australia and are often seen in pairs or small groups.

🎧 Sounds like: A rusty hinge or squeaky garden gate

🎭 Superb Lyrebird

The Superb Lyrebird is a true mimic master. This shy forest bird has one of the most complex vocal repertoires in the world, copying other bird species, and even artificial sounds like camera shutters, chainsaws, and car alarms.

During breeding season, males put on elaborate vocal and visual displays, mimicking dozens of birds in rapid sequence while fanning out their incredible tail feathers.

🎧 Sounds like: Everything! Other birds, machinery, even human-made noises

🕶️ Black Currawong

Found mostly in Tasmania, the Black Currawong is a large, all-black bird with bright yellow eyes and a powerful bill. Its calls are loud, varied, and often have a flute-like or croaky tone, sometimes compared to a crow trying to sing opera.

They’re clever, curious birds, often seen patrolling picnic areas or scavenging in parks.

🎧 Sounds like: Flute-like whistles, warbles, and croaks

🐧 Little Penguin

Found along southern Australia’s coastlines, Little Penguins may look cute, but their vocalizations are loud and bizarre, ranging from braying donkey-like calls to guttural growls and honks. Their vocal style is harsh and surprising, especially when heard at night in a penguin colony!

These calls help individuals recognize their mates and chicks in the noisy crowd.

🎧 Sounds like: A baby donkey, a grumbling stomach, or something out of a cartoon horror movie.

🎧 Why Do These Birds Sound So Weird?

Bird calls serve all kinds of purposes: marking territory, attracting mates, or warning off predators. In Australia's varied ecosystems, birds have evolved unique sounds to stand out in the crowd, or blend in cleverly by mimicking others.

Want to explore more strange and beautiful bird calls? Visit a local nature reserve with your ears open -- you never know what you’ll hear! Meanwhile, we'll be listening out for these birds during our travels through Australia. We hope we can hear some of them!

Every October, millions of birds take to the skies as they travel thousands of miles toward their wintering grounds. To celebrate World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD), one week from today on October 11, 2025, we’re spotlighting some birds that are true champions of long-distance travel.

These species make epic journeys across oceans, continents, and time zones—and many return to the same place every year!

Arctic Tern: The Ultimate Globe-Trotter

The Arctic Tern holds the record for the longest migration in the animal kingdom. These sleek white seabirds breed in the Arctic and fly all the way to Antarctica for the southern summer—a round trip of over 44,000 miles (71,000 km) each year!

That means an Arctic Tern sees two summers every year and experiences more daylight than any other animal on Earth.

Bar-tailed Godwit: Nonstop Flight Record-Holder

In 2022, a satellite-tagged Bar-tailed Godwit flew from Alaska to Australia nonstop—a journey of over 8,400 miles (13,500 km) in 11 days. No food, no rest, just pure endurance.

These shorebirds rely on healthy wetlands to fuel up before their flights, making habitat conservation vital to their survival.

Swainson’s Hawk: From Prairie to Pampas

Swainson’s Hawks breed in the grasslands of western North America and migrate to Argentina for the winter. That’s a trip of nearly 6,000 miles (9,600 km)—each way!

They form large flocks during migration, sometimes called “kettles,” and ride thermals across the sky like gliders.

What You Can Do to Help Migrating Birds

Migration is dangerous. Birds face threats from habitat loss, window collisions, and light pollution. Here are 3 easy things you can do at home to help birds on the move:

1. Make windows bird-safe
   Use decals, tape, or screens to prevent deadly collisions. Birds often don’t see glass.

2. Turn off outdoor lights at night
   Bright lights disorient migrating birds. Go dark, especially during peak migration.

3. Plant native plants
   Native trees and shrubs provide natural food and shelter. Bonus: You’ll attract more birds to your yard!

Whether it’s flying from pole to pole or crossing entire oceans, migratory birds are some of the most incredible travelers on the planet. This World Migratory Bird Day, let’s celebrate their journeys—and do our part to help them get there safely.

Which migratory bird is your favorite? What will you do to celebrate migratory birds next weekend? Let us know in the comments!

Vultures and condors come with a host of quirky nicknames—some endearing, some downright odd. Exploring these names is like uncovering a mini time capsule of cultural, historical, and regional perspectives on these misunderstood birds.

Ossifrage and Lammergeier

The Bearded Vulture goes by a couple of striking names. The name Lammergeier comes from German, meaning lamb‑vulture. This stems from old beliefs that these magnificent birds preyed on young lambs. Another name, no longer in common use, Ossifrage, means bone-breaker. 

Pharaoh’s Chicken

The Egyptian Vulture is also known by the playful nickname Pharaoh’s Chicken. In ancient Egypt, the species was revered as sacred, and associated with the goddess Nekhbet, seen as a protector of the pharaoh and families. Its image even appeared in hieroglyphs and royal symbolism, earning it this memorable moniker. The bird was both common and royal, giving it the funny nickname.

Monk Vulture

The largest Old World species, the Cinereous Vulture, is sometimes called the Monk Vulture, or simply Monk. This alternative name refers to the bald head and the hood-like ruff of feathers that evoke a monk’s cowl. 

John Crow

In some parts of the Caribbean, the Turkey Vulture is also known as John Crow. You can learn more about the meaning behind this name and other lore shared through generations in Jamaica about this common bird from the post on 10,000 Birds: Headman John Crow.

Buzzards, Vultures, and Hawks, Oh My!

In North America, New World vultures are sometimes called buzzards, a term historically reserved for Old World buteos like hawks. For instance, the Turkey Vulture may be called a Turkey Buzzard, or even Red-necked Buzzard. This mix-up arises because buzzard actually refers to a different group of birds in Europe. It's technically a mislabel, but entrenched in the vernacular.  Early North American settlers from the Old World may have mistaken soaring vultures for the familiar buzzards they knew back home, and the name stuck.

Why These Names Matter

Nicknames offer a peek into the culture and history surrounding a species. Some reflect ancient beliefs, others regional habits, and even glimpses into human creativity -- or misunderstanding.

Late summer is a great time for berry-loving birds. As wild berries ripen, many species take advantage of the sweet, energy-rich food source. These fruits provide a boost for birds preparing for fall migration or molting. Here are five birds that especially enjoy berries this time of year.

Cedar Waxwing

Cedar Waxwings are perhaps the most famous berry-eaters in North America. These sleek birds with silky plumage and bright red wing tips are often found in flocks near fruiting trees and shrubs. In late summer, they gorge on dogwood, serviceberry, and elderberry. Cedar Waxwings are such fruit fanatics that they’re one of the few North American birds that can survive almost entirely on fruit for weeks at a time. They’re also known to pass berries to one another as part of their courtship behavior.

American Robin

Though often associated with earthworms, American Robins are also big fans of fruit. In late summer, their diet shifts toward berries like chokecherries, mountain ash, and wild grapes. Robins are commonly seen in backyards hopping between berry-laden bushes or perched in fruiting trees. These berries help fuel their southward migration and also support young birds, just learning how to be a bird, that fledged earlier in the season.

Baltimore Oriole

Bright and bold, Baltimore Orioles are nectar and insect feeders in spring, but they also go crazy for berries later in the summer. They’re especially attracted to dark fruits like mulberries and blackberries. If you live in the eastern U.S., you might spot them plucking ripe fruit with their pointed bills. At this time of year, orioles are getting ready for a long migration to Central and South America, and berries give them the energy they need.

Gray Catbird

Gray Catbirds are noisy mimics that love dense shrubs—especially those loaded with fruit. Late summer is prime time for catbirds to load up on berries like elderberry, viburnum, and honeysuckle. They’re often heard before they’re seen, giving their signature mew call. If you want to attract catbirds, planting native berry-producing shrubs is a great way to start.

Northern Mockingbird

Northern Mockingbirds are known for their ability to mimic other birds’ songs, but they also have a strong preference for berries, especially in late summer. They’ll fiercely defend berry bushes from other birds, claiming the food for themselves. Look for them around fruiting trees like holly or firethorn, where they may perch conspicuously and chase away intruders. Mockingbirds often remain on territory year-round, so plants that offer late summer berries are important for both feeding and defending their space.

If you want to support berry-loving birds in your yard, consider planting native fruiting shrubs and trees. Species like serviceberry, elderberry, dogwood, and chokecherry are excellent choices. Avoid invasive plants like multiflora rose and bush honeysuckle, which can do more harm than good to local ecosystems.

Here in Florida and across the southeast, American Beautyberry shrubs provide good fuel for migratory birds that spend the winter here, and for the many migrants that stop off in the Sunshine State before heading further south for the season.

Watching birds feast on berries is a late-summer treat. Whether you're in a city park, backyard, or forest edge, keep an eye out—you might see these birds at their hungriest and most active.

If you’ve ever watched a pigeon strut across a sidewalk, you’ve probably noticed its distinctive head-bobbing walk. It looks quirky, even a little funny, but there’s an important reason birds like pigeons move this way—it helps them see the world clearly as they move.

Birds rely heavily on vision to find food, avoid predators, and navigate their environments. For most bird species, sharp vision is critical. But unlike humans, birds don’t have the same head and neck structure to stabilize their view with eye movements alone. Instead, they use a clever trick: they move their heads in a way that keeps their vision steady while their body moves forward.

The key is a process called head stabilization. When a pigeon walks, it pushes its head forward, then holds it still in space as its body catches up. This pause creates a moment of stable vision, allowing the bird to clearly see objects in its environment. The head then snaps forward again, repeating the cycle. So what looks like a bobbing motion is actually a well-timed system of keeping the head still for just long enough to take in a clear image.

Studies using high-speed video have shown that the “bob” is made up of two phases: a hold phase, where the head stays in place, and a thrust phase, where it quickly moves forward. During the hold phase, the bird gets a steady view of the world. This is especially helpful for depth perception and detecting motion, both of which are harder if the entire field of view is constantly shifting.

Not all birds bob their heads, though. Species that fly a lot or hunt in the air, like hawks or swallows, tend to rely more on rapid eye movements and other methods of visual stabilization. But for ground-dwellers, especially those with relatively long necks, head-bobbing is an efficient solution. It’s even been observed in cranes, herons, and some parrots.

Interestingly, if you were to place a pigeon on a treadmill moving at the right speed, it will stop bobbing its head entirely. That’s because the bird’s body isn’t moving forward in relation to the ground, so there’s no need to stabilize its vision. The head remains still because the view doesn’t change.

This behavior gives a window into how birds have adapted their bodies and behaviors to suit their environments. It’s a great example of how something that looks funny to us serves a vital purpose in the wild. Next time you see a pigeon walking down the street with that familiar bob, you’ll know it’s not just being quirky—it’s using a built-in visual system to make sense of the world.

Did you know that the White Ibis is sometimes called the "hurricane bird"? This coastal wader, known for its bright white feathers, pinkish-red bill, and curved posture, has a reputation for behaving in ways that seem to predict the weather. The nickname comes from a mix of science and folklore, especially in hurricane-prone states like Birdorable's home here in Florida.

One of the main reasons White Ibises have earned this nickname is their tendency to change locations before a storm. Observers have long noted that large flocks will move inland from the coast before a hurricane or severe weather hits. It's as if they can sense the shift in atmospheric pressure or other environmental cues, prompting them to seek safer ground. This behavior isn’t just a fluke—many coastal birds have evolved to respond to changing conditions, but the White Ibis seems to do it in especially noticeable numbers.

In southern communities, this behavior has turned into local lore. People say that when they see White Ibises gathering in unusual numbers, flying away from the coast, or changing their feeding habits, it's time to keep an eye on the weather forecast. In this way, White Ibises have become an unofficial early-warning system. While not a replacement for meteorology, they add a natural signal that some folks still trust.

Adding to their "storm bird" reputation is the fact that White Ibises are often among the first birds to return to coastal wetlands after a hurricane has passed. Their return can be seen as a small sign of recovery, a symbol of the ecosystem beginning to bounce back. Seeing them wade through flooded marshes or forage in newly settled areas can be a comforting sight to people living in storm-hit regions.

White Ibises are common in southeastern wetlands, often foraging in groups in shallow water. They use their long, curved bills to probe for insects, crustaceans, and small fish. They nest in colonies, often with other wading birds, and their social nature makes their movements more noticeable to birdwatchers and locals alike.

Hurricane season in the southeastern U.S. runs from June through November, so it's the perfect time to watch White Ibis behavior closely. Whether you're a birder keeping field notes or just someone who enjoys spotting birds in your neighborhood, the presence—or sudden absence—of these birds might hint at changes ahead.

At Birdorable, we love sharing fun facts like this with our readers and fans. Our Birdorable White Ibis might not predict a storm, but it's ready to brighten your day no matter the weather!

When it comes to baby birds, most people think of the word "chick" as a catch-all term. And while "chick" works for nearly all bird species, some types of birds have unique names for their young. These special terms often come from traditional falconry, farming, or historical use, and they can tell us a bit about how humans have interacted with certain birds over time.

One of the most well-known examples is eaglet, the specific term for a young eagle. This word has roots in Old French (as the diminutive of eagle) and has been used for centuries, especially in literature and ornithology. Eaglets are typically seen as majestic and noble, mirroring the cultural significance of adult eagles.

Another specialized term is eyas, which refers to a young species of falcon, especially one that is still in the nest. This word comes from Middle English falconry and was originally “niais,” from Latin “nidus,” meaning simply nest. Over time, “a niais” became “an eyas.” This evolution in language is called rebracketing, and it’s how “an apron” came from “a napron” as well. Eyas is rarely used outside falconry circles, but it's still an important word for anyone working with raptors.

For game birds like turkeys and pheasants, the word poult is used. A poult is a young game bird that hasn't yet reached maturity. This term is especially common among poultry farmers and hunters. It's practical and widely understood in agriculture, where these birds are often raised.

Swans, known for their elegance, have a unique baby name too: cygnet. This comes from the Latin word “cygnus,” meaning swan, combined with the French diminutive “-et,” making it literally little swan. Cygnet is used exclusively for young swans, and is especially common in the UK and in literary usage.

Owls have their own baby term as well: owlet. This word functions similarly to eaglet, simply adding the diminutive suffix “-let” to the adult bird’s name. Owlet is widely used and appears in both scientific and casual contexts.

Another unique term is squab, which refers to a young pigeon, usually one that is still in the nest and has not yet fledged. Squabs are known for being plump and fast-growing, and the word is often used in culinary contexts as well, since young domestic pigeons have historically been raised for food. In birding and aviculture, the term helps distinguish these very young birds from older birds, especially in species like Rock Pigeons and domesticated breeds.

Some birds have more general names for their young. Ducks and geese both have chicks, but we usually call them ducklings and goslings. The “-ling” suffix is another diminutive, like “-let,” used to indicate something small or young. The same goes for fledgling, a term used more broadly for young birds that have just left the nest but are not yet fully independent. The terms hatchling and nestling follow this same format.

Unique chick names are more common for birds that have had long relationships with humans, be it through hunting, farming, or cultural symbolism. That’s why many raptors, swans, and game birds have special names for their young, while other birds do not.  While "chick" works for almost any young bird, using more specific names like cygnet or eyas can add clarity and depth, especially when talking about particular species or stages of development. Whether you're a birder, pet owner, or just bird-curious, knowing these terms is a fun way to connect more closely with the avian world.

Birds are some of the most fascinating creatures on Earth, and when it comes to speed, they reach heights and velocities that leave other animals in the dust. Let’s dive into some fun facts about the fastest birds in the world, from supersonic hunters to featherlight flyers.

The Peregrine Falcon is the undisputed speed champion in the bird world. In a hunting dive known as a stoop, this bird can reach speeds over 240 mph (386 km/h). That makes it not only the fastest bird, but the fastest of all animals! (You may have heard of the speedy Cheetah, which with a sprint speed up to 75 mph, is the fastest land animal). Its streamlined body and stiff feathers reduce drag, while powerful flight muscles give it that incredible thrust. When it sees prey from high above, it tucks in its wings and plunges headfirst, aiming to strike at top speed.

Next up is the Golden Eagle. It’s not quite as fast as the Peregrine Falcon when diving, but it can still reach speeds around 150–200 mph (240–320 km/h) in stoops. It’s also one of the largest birds of prey, with a wingspan that can reach over seven feet. This size gives it great leverage and power, helping it glide and dive with impressive control.

Other fast-diving birds include the Saker Falcon (up to 200 mph) and the Gyrfalcon (up to 130 mph). 

The White-throated Needletail, a large species of swift, claims the title of fastest level flier. It can cruise at speeds of up to 105 mph (169 km/h) without ever having to dive. These swifts spend most of their lives in the air, even sleeping while on the wing. Their streamlined shape and long, narrow wings reduce drag and help them maintain prolonged, high-speed flights.

The Common Swift is another aerial marvel. It can reach speeds around 70 mph (112 km/h) during normal, level flight. These birds also spend almost their entire lives flying—eating, sleeping, and mating while airborne. They only touch down to nest. Their wings and tail are especially adapted for agile maneuvering, allowing them to dart and chase insects with precision.

Frigatebirds may not thought of as speedsters, but they’re masters of efficient, energy-saving flight. The Magnificent Frigatebird is one example. It can glide on thermals for hours without flapping, and its lightweight body and wing shape allow it to stay aloft with minimal effort. It can reach a top speed of around 95 mph (153 km/h), in part due to having the largest wing size per body weight of all bird species.

Another impressive flier is the Eurasian Hobby. This small falcon often reaches speeds up to 90 mph (145 km/h) when chasing dragonflies or small birds. Its high-speed pursuit capabilities make it a remarkable aerial hunter.

These birds have evolved their speed in different ways. Falcons rely on steep dives to pick up speed. Swifts and frigatebirds develop speed and endurance through streamlined bodies and specially designed wings. Eagles blend power and size, using their strength to dive swiftly too.

Speed isn’t just about velocity—it’s also about purpose. Falcons and eagles use it to catch prey. Swifts need speed to dodge and capture insects mid-air, and frigatebirds soar to find food far out at sea. Each species showcases how evolution shapes birds to meet their environmental needs.

For birdwatchers and backyard birders, observing these fast flyers can be thrilling. Falcons and swifts can appear as blurred streaks overhead, so using binoculars and scanning the skies regularly to spot these speedy birds. Look for falcons near cliff faces or tall buildings where they can build high nests for their stoops. Swifts will frequent open skies and sometimes roost in groups near urban areas or countryside.

These amazing speedsters show how birds push the boundaries of flight. Whether diving at incredible speeds or cruising non-stop for hours, their adaptations are a marvel of nature. Next time you glance up and see a swift darting by or spot a falcon silhouette on a building, you’ll know there’s more behind that blur—traits honed by evolution over millions of years!

When you spot a bird with red eyes, it’s hard not to do a double take. While it might seem spooky or unusual, red eyes are perfectly normal for many bird species. From songbirds to waterbirds, eye color can vary a lot in the avian world. But why do some birds have red eyes? Let’s explore the reasons and highlight a few red-eyed species.

How do some birds have red eyes?

Eye color in birds is influenced by several different factors. Different pigment types, structural factors in the iris, and other criteria may contribute to eye color. In red-eyed birds, the red color often comes from blood vessels showing through a relatively unpigmented iris, or from pigments like carotenoids. These pigments can create various hues, including red, orange, or yellow, depending on their concentration and how light hits the eye. Differences in diet can also influence the pigments that determine eye color.

Why do some birds have red eyes?

Red eyes can serve different purposes depending on the species. For some birds, red eyes are a signal used in social interactions or mating displays. In others, it might help identify individual birds, or aid in camouflage. It might simply be a side effect of genetics with no major evolutionary function.

What are some birds with red eyes?

One of the most well-known red-eyed birds is the Red-eyed Vireo. This small songbird is found across much of North America during the breeding season. Its distinctive red eyes are set against a gray head and white underparts, making them stand out. Red-eyed Vireos are known for their persistent singing during the summer, often heard before they're seen.

Another common red-eyed species is the American Coot. These waterbirds have dark bodies, white bills, and bright red eyes that contrast sharply with their plumage. Unlike ducks, American Coots have lobed toes instead of webbed feet, which help them swim. The red eyes of coots may play a role in signaling during territorial or mating behavior.

The Wood Duck is another example, with males showing off striking red eyes that add to their already colorful appearance. In their case, red eyes might serve to attract mates by emphasizing their bold and flashy plumage.

Some grebes, like the Eared Grebe and Western Grebe, also sport red eyes. These aquatic birds are excellent divers, and their eye color may help enhance vision in darker conditions, such as underwater.

Interestingly, red eyes aren’t always present throughout a bird’s life. Some birds develop red eyes only as adults, and juveniles may have dark or brown eyes that change as they mature. This age-related color change might help birds recognize individuals of breeding age. For example, adult Black-crowned Night-Herons have red eyes; young birds have yellowish eyes.

There’s also variation even within a species. Not all individuals of a red-eyed species will have equally vivid red eyes. Light, diet, age, and even stress can affect how bright their eyes appear. Swallow-tailed Kites have varied eye colors between individuals. Some kites have red eyes, while others have dark brown eyes.

Though red eyes are striking, they’re just one example of the fascinating diversity of bird eye color. Birds can have yellow, orange, blue, white, or dark eyes, and each color might play a role in their behavior, ecology, or communication.

Next time you see a bird with red eyes, remember—it’s not scary. It’s just one of the many cool adaptations birds have evolved. If you'd like to learn more about eye color in birds, check out this article about eye color from the British Ornithologists' Union and this Audubon article: Bird Eyes Come In an Amazing Array of Colors.