We've talked about endemic birds a few times on this blog, notably during our recent Puerto Rico week, but we've never really explored exactly what it means to be endemic. Let's look into the meaning of endemism and birds!

When a bird is described as "endemic" to a region, it means that the species is naturally found only in that specific area and nowhere else in the world. Endemism occurs when a bird evolves in isolation, often on islands, mountain ranges, or other geographically restricted locations. These species may be highly adapted to the unique environment of their home region.

Islands are hotspots for endemic bird species. For example, the Galápagos Islands are famous for their endemic finches, which helped Charles Darwin develop his theory of evolution. Each finch species on the islands evolved different beak shapes depending on their food source, and none of them are naturally found anywhere else.

Hawaii is another place rich in endemic birds, like the ‘I‘iwi and the Nēnē. These birds evolved in isolation over thousands of years, adapting to the islands’ specific conditions. Unfortunately, many of Hawaii’s endemic birds are now endangered or extinct due to habitat loss, introduced predators, and diseases brought by non-native species.

Endemism isn't limited to islands. Mountain ranges, deserts, and other unique habitats can also host endemic species. For instance, the Ethiopian Highlands are home to several endemic birds, like the Ethiopian Bush-crow and the Abyssinian Catbird. These birds have adapted to high elevations and specific ecological conditions that aren't found elsewhere.

By the way, endemism doesn't necessarily refer to a species that lives in a tiny area. We can also say that a species is endemic to a state (like the Florida Scrub-Jay), a country (like the Red Warbler of Mexico), or even a continent (like many of Australia's birds). Most often, though, when we refer to an endemic bird, we are talking about a specialty found in a small range within one geographically designated area (most often a state, or a country).

Being endemic can make a bird species more vulnerable to threats. Because they have such a limited range, any change to their habitat—whether it's deforestation, climate change, or the introduction of invasive species—can have a big impact. Conservation efforts often focus on protecting endemic species because losing them means losing a piece of biodiversity that exists nowhere else.

Some endemic birds are iconic symbols of their regions. The Brown Kiwi is endemic to New Zealand and is deeply tied to the country's identity. The Philippine Eagle and the Cuban Trogon are both national birds of their respective endemic countries. These birds all play important roles in both local ecosystems and human cultures.

Birdwatchers often travel to see endemic species because their rarity adds excitement to birding trips. Endemic birds are a major draw for eco-tourism in regions like Madagascar, the Philippines, and New Guinea, where biodiversity is high and many birds are found only in specific habitats.

So, when you hear that a bird is endemic, it means that bird is a unique natural treasure of its region. These birds remind us how diverse and specialized life on Earth can be—and how important it is to protect their habitats so they can continue to thrive.

A recent study published in the journal Biology Letters documents how Sulphur‑crested Cockatoos in western Sydney, Australia, have developed a novel behavior: operating twist-handle public drinking fountains (“bubblers”) by gripping and turning the valve with their feet to access water. Researchers observed this behavior in an area that serves as a nighttime roost for approximately 100–150 birds.

Using remote video cameras, birds were recorded making 525 drinking attempts during the 44-day study, with around 70 % of the local cockatoo population participating; the birds achieved a 41 % success rate. The cockatoos showed remarkably organized “queuing” behavior (lining up and taking turns) when using the fountains as a group.

The researchers describe this as an urban-adapted local tradition, a cultural behavior that has socially diffused throughout the local flock. The study underscores how highly intelligent, opportunistic species like cockatoos adapt to and exploit human environments.

Scientists invite public participation through citizen science platforms like the Big City Birds app to document further novel behaviors. Anecdotal reports include cockatoos opening lunch boxes and knocking on classroom windows for food, highlighting their remarkable problem-solving capabilities and adaptability. Read more about these smart cockatoos and the study here: Cockatoos stun by learning human-like trick.

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.

Summer is the perfect time to grab your binoculars and hit the trail—or even just step outside into your backyard! Whether you're new to birdwatching or a seasoned birder, summer offers a chance to see some amazing birds in action. From colorful songbirds to sleek waterbirds, here’s a fun Summer Bucket List of 10 birds to look out for this season, plus where you're likely to find them. This list is aimed at our North American friends; if you'd like to see a similar list for another part of the world, please let us know!

American Goldfinch

These bright yellow birds are common across most of the United States and southern Canada. Look for them in weedy fields and backyards, especially where thistles grow. If you don't have American Goldfinches breeding where you live, try looking for House Finches, whose year-round range includes much of the United States, apart from the central mountain region.

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

The only breeding hummingbird in the eastern U.S., they range from the Gulf Coast north to southern Canada. Attracted to gardens with flowers or nectar feeders, they’re a summer favorite. If you're out of their range, pick another native hummingbird to find, like the Black-chinned Hummingbird, widespread across the west. 

Barn Swallow

Found across almost all of North America during summer, Barn Swallows nest under eaves, bridges, and barns. Their acrobatic flight makes them easy to spot near open areas. For an added challenge, look for Chimney Swifts in the eastern half of the U.S., or White-throated Swifts in the west. These high fliers have similar traits -- see if you can learn the differences between these flying friends.

Eastern Bluebird

Common in the eastern half of the U.S. and parts of the Southwest during summer, Eastern Bluebirds prefer open country with scattered trees and nest boxes. If these blue beauties aren't in your neighborhood, try looking for Mountain Bluebirds, or Western Bluebirds.

Cedar Waxwing

These birds breed across most of southern Canada and the northern U.S., but can be seen throughout much of the continent in summer. Watch for flocks near fruiting trees and water. If you're south of their summer range, try finding another berry-loving species: the Northern Mockingbird.

Great Blue Heron

Great Blue Herons can be found along coasts, wetlands, and inland waterways across great parts of the continent. During the summer, these imposing waders are active and visible around lakes, marshes, and coastal shores. 

Belted Kingfisher

Found across most of North America near lakes, rivers, and coasts, these little fish-lovers are recognizable by their rattling call and mohawk-like crest. Watch for them diving headfirst into water to catch fish.

Western Tanager

This colorful cutie is a summer visitor to western North America, from California to British Columbia and the Rockies. Males are eye-catching with red heads and yellow bodies. They often stay high in the canopy, but their vivid colors can give them away. Out of range alternatives to look for: Summer Tanagers across the south and Scarlet Tanagers across the east.

Killdeer

Widespread in open areas across North America, these familiar plovers often nest on gravel rooftops or bare ground and are famous for their “broken wing” act to lure predators away from their nests.

Common Nighthawk

Seen across most of North America, only in summer, Common Nighthawks are active at dusk in both cities and open areas. Listen for their nasal "peent" call and watch for their erratic flight. As an alternative, you could try looking for a Black-crowned Night Heron.

Could you find all of these birds during the summer? Would you have to travel far to see them, or can you check them off in your yard, neighborhood, or nearby park? Could you find them all in a day? A week?

With a little luck and some time outdoors, hopefully you can check off several of these birds from your summer list. See how many you can find in your area and let us know how you do in the comments! Happy summer birding!

Feeding birds in the summer can be just as rewarding as in winter, but the warmer weather brings different challenges. Birds still appreciate easy access to food, especially during breeding season when they’re raising hungry chicks. However, it’s important to follow some summer-specific tips to keep your feathered visitors safe and healthy.

Do keep feeders clean

In the heat, food can spoil quickly, especially suet and fruit. Moldy or rotten food can be dangerous for birds. Clean your feeders every few days with a diluted bleach solution or hot soapy water, and rinse them thoroughly. Regular cleaning helps prevent the spread of disease, no matter the season.

Don’t offer suet in high heat

Suet can melt in warm weather, turning rancid and attracting pests like insects or rodents. If you want to offer high-fat foods, use no-melt suet cakes that are designed for summer use, or switch to alternatives like sunflower seeds or peanuts.

Do provide fresh water

Water is even more important than food during the summer. Birds need it for drinking and bathing to regulate their body temperature. A shallow birdbath, dish, or fountain can be a lifeline during hot, dry spells. Change the water daily and clean the container every few days to avoid mosquito breeding and algae buildup. Offering movement via a drip hose or mister can help keep the water fresher longer.

Don’t overload feeders

Only put out as much food as the birds will eat in a day or two. Excess food spoils faster in heat, and it can also attract unwanted animals. Store birdseed in a cool, dry place to prevent mold and keep insects away.

Do adjust feeder placement

Move feeders into shaded areas to slow spoilage and keep birds more comfortable while feeding. Avoid placing feeders in direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day.

Do think about nesting birds

During summer, many birds are busy feeding their young. Offering live or dried mealworms and protein-rich food like black oil sunflower seeds can help support their growing families. Some species may even come to your yard just for these easy meals.

Don’t forget about native plants

Summer is a great time to supplement feeders with natural food sources. Native flowers, shrubs, and trees can provide nectar, seeds, berries, and insects. These natural foods support more species and contribute to a healthier ecosystem.

Feeding birds in summer requires a bit more attention, but it’s a great way to support wildlife during a critical time of year. By following a few simple dos and don’ts, you can keep your backyard visitors healthy, happy, and coming back for more.

When temperatures rise, birds have to work hard to keep cool. Unlike humans, birds don't sweat. So how do they survive the summer heat? Birds have evolved several clever ways to regulate their body temperature and stay safe when the sun is blazing.

One of the first things birds do when it's hot is seek out shade. They’ll retreat into dense shrubs, trees, or the shadowed side of buildings. Many birds become less active during the hottest part of the day and save their foraging and other activities for early morning or late afternoon when it's cooler.

Birds also rely on water. Bathing in shallow puddles or birdbaths helps them cool down and keeps their feathers in good condition. You might also see birds spreading their wings and holding their feathers away from their bodies to let air circulate and carry away heat. Some species, like Turkey Vultures, even urinate on their legs in a process called urohidrosis—when the liquid evaporates, it cools their blood vessels.

Panting is another common cooling method. Just like dogs, birds will open their beaks and breathe rapidly to increase evaporation from the respiratory system. This helps release excess body heat. Some birds, like owls, cormorants, and herons, use a technique called gular fluttering, which involves vibrating the throat tissues to boost cooling without expending much energy.

Feathers play an important role, too. Feathers act as a barrier that protects a bird's skin from direct solar radiation. This insulation works both ways—while feathers trap warmth in cold weather, they also reduce heat absorption by reflecting sunlight and blocking UV rays. This is particularly important for birds in sunny, arid regions.

Birds can fluff up their feathers to allow air to circulate close to their skin. This movement of air helps dissipate excess heat. Conversely, they can press feathers down tightly to reduce airflow and conserve warmth when needed.

Birds also adjust their behavior based on the season. Desert species like the Greater Roadrunner are especially adapted to extreme heat. They’re active mostly in the early morning and rest in the shade during midday. Nightjars, which are nocturnal, avoid the heat entirely by being active only after dark.

You can help backyard birds stay cool by providing clean, fresh water in birdbaths or shallow dishes. Place them in shady areas and clean them regularly. Planting native shrubs or trees can also give birds much-needed shelter during the hottest times of day.

Watching how birds handle the heat can be fascinating—and a great reminder that all animals, including us, need to adapt to our changing climate. Whether it’s panting, perching in the shade, or finding a cool bath, birds have plenty of tricks to beat the heat.

We've previously highlighted amazing avian dads in both Fun Avian Dad Facts for Father's Day and More Fun Avian Dad Facts for Father's Day. As dad's big day approaches again this year, let's take a look at some more fun facts about feathered fathers.

Native to Central and South America, the male Sungrebe is unique among birds for having specialized pouches under his wings to carry his chicks. After hatching, he places his altricial chicks into these pouches, keeping them safe and warm  while he forages. He will even carry the young when swimming, and flying! This remarkable adaptation allows him to transport and protect his young until they are ready to fend for themselves.

The African Jacana is a standout dad in the bird world. In this species, females are polyandrous—one female mates with multiple males—while the males take on virtually all of the parental responsibilities. After the female lays her eggs in the nest built mostly by the male, he incubates the eggs and raises the chicks entirely on his own. Using his long toes to carefully walk across lily pads and floating vegetation, he protects and feeds his young in freshwater wetlands across sub-Saharan Africa. If danger threatens, he can even tuck the chicks under his wings and carry them to safety, legs dangling comically from beneath his body.

Defying typical bird gender roles, the female Wilson's Phalarope is the more colorful of the sexes; she leaves incubation duties to the male. He develops a brood patch and is the only one to incubate the eggs and care for the chicks, often continuing to feed and protect them for weeks after they leave the nest.

Found in the southeastern United States, some Brown-headed Nuthatches exhibit cooperative breeding. Male offspring from previous broods often assist their parents in raising new chicks, feeding and defending the nest. These helpers act as father figures by helping in several aspects of raising young, from territory defense to nest-building, and feeding of chicks. Having a team of uncles like these can enhance the survival rate of the young.

These bird dads (and father-figure uncles) showcase the diverse and remarkable ways male birds contribute to raising their young. Their dedication and care are truly something to celebrate this Father’s Day.

Birds are everywhere — from your backyard to the deepest jungles and highest mountains. Whether you're a casual birdwatcher or a hardcore birder, there’s always something new to learn about these fascinating creatures. Here are ten fun and surprising bird facts that are perfect for sharing with friends.

Birds Are Living Dinosaurs

It’s true! Birds evolved from small feathered dinosaurs, and they’re the only living descendants of this ancient group. If you’ve ever thought a chicken looked a bit like a tiny T. rex, you’re not wrong.

The Bee Hummingbird Is the World’s Smallest Bird

Found in Cuba, the Bee Hummingbird is about the size of a large insect. It measures just over 2 inches long and weighs less than a penny. Despite its size, it can beat its wings up to 80 times per second. 

Pigeons Can Recognize Themselves in Mirrors

While most animals don’t pass the mirror test for self-recognition, pigeons can. They’ve also been trained to distinguish between different styles of art and even detect cancer in medical images. Not bad for city birds!

Owls Can’t Move Their Eyes — But They Can Rotate Their Heads

Owls’ eyes are fixed in their sockets, so to look around, they turn their entire head. They can rotate it up to 270 degrees without damaging blood vessels or cutting off circulation.

Flamingos Are Not Naturally Pink

The familiar pink color in flamingos comes from their diet of shrimp and algae rich in carotenoids. In zoos, if their diet lacks these pigments, they can turn pale or even white.

The Arctic Tern Migrates Farther Than Any Other Bird

Arctic Terns migrate from the Arctic to the Antarctic and back each year, covering over 50,000 miles annually. That’s more than one and a half trips around the Earth.

The American Woodcock Has the Slowest Recorded Bird Flight

Also called the "Timberdoodle," the American Woodcock holds the title for the slowest flying bird. During its courtship display, the male woodcock performs a slow, fluttering flight at speeds of about 5 MPH, making it the slowest recorded flight among birds.

The Hoatzin Has a Digestive System Like a Cow

This South American bird eats leaves and ferments them in a special stomach chamber, similar to how cows digest their food. The process gives the Hoatzin a distinctive, slightly funky smell—earning it the nickname “stinkbird.”

Lyrebirds Can Mimic Chainsaws and Camera Shutters

Native to Australia, Lyrebirds are incredible mimics. In the wild, they’ve been recorded copying sounds like camera shutters, car alarms, and even chainsaws—making them some of the best impressionists in the animal kingdom.

Killdeer Fake Injuries to Protect Their Nests

If a predator comes too close, a Killdeer may pretend to have a broken wing, flopping around dramatically to lure the threat away from its nest. Once the danger is gone, it quickly flies off—completely unharmed.

Birds are endlessly interesting, and these fun facts only scratch the surface. Whether it’s their incredible migrations, quirky behaviors, or surprising intelligence, birds have a lot going on — and it’s no wonder they fascinate people all over the world.

Bird poop might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about fascinating bird facts, but it’s actually full of surprises. From why it looks the way it does to how it helps scientists learn more about bird behavior, bird droppings have a lot to say. 

One of the most obvious features of bird waste is its color. Most of it is white. Birds excrete nitrogenous waste in the form of uric acid, not urea like mammals. Uric acid is pasty and white, and it's expelled along with fecal matter in one go. The darker part you see in the dropping is the feces, while the white part is uric acid (like urine). This combination comes out of a single opening called the cloaca, which handles both digestion and reproduction. So while bird waste contains both poop and pee, for the rest of this post we'll refer to this waste simply as poop.

Another curious thing about bird poop is how often birds go. Birds don’t have bladders, and they don’t store waste for long. This is an adaptation for flight—carrying extra weight isn’t ideal when you need to stay airborne. So instead of holding onto waste, birds eliminate it frequently. Smaller birds with faster metabolisms poop more often than larger ones. A little songbird might go every 10 to 20 minutes, while larger birds like hawks or pigeons have slightly longer intervals.

Bird poop also has real-world applications, especially in science. Ornithologists can analyze droppings to learn about a bird’s diet, health, and even where it's been. Traces of insects, seeds, and other food sources can be found in poop samples, giving clues to a bird’s foraging habits. Some researchers use poop to study migratory patterns, testing for isotopes that reveal where the bird has traveled. Bird droppings can also be analyzed for pollutants like pesticides or heavy metals, offering a glimpse into environmental health. This is useful when caring for individual birds, as in rehabilitation, pet birds, and aviaries, as well as surveying the health of wild bird populations. 

Some vultures have a unique way of using their waste to stay cool! They poop on their legs. This behavior is called urohidrosis. When a vulture defecates on its legs, the liquid waste evaporates and helps lower the bird’s body temperature, similar to how sweating works in humans. The uric acid in the waste also has a bleaching effect, which is why some vultures have white-streaked legs. It’s not the most glamorous cooling system, but it’s effective, especially in the hot, arid environments where many vultures live.

While most of us see bird poop as a nuisance—especially if it ends up on a car or outdoor furniture—it plays an important ecological role. Guano, the accumulated droppings of seabirds (or bats), is an extremely rich natural fertilizer. It’s high in nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium, which are essential nutrients for plant growth. In some places, guano harvesting has been a major industry. Coastal islands where seabirds nest can develop thick layers of guano over centuries, supporting agriculture far from the ocean. Guano of seabirds has been used as an agricultural fertilizer for over a thousand years! Guano of birds like the Brown Pelican, Peruvian Booby, and Guanay Cormorant (with a name taken from the Spanish word for guano!) has been used for agriculture in South America.

So, while bird poop might seem like nothing more than an annoyance, it’s actually a product of evolutionary efficiency and even scientific utility. It reveals insights into a bird’s biology, environment, and behavior. And yes, it’s still annoying when it hits your windshield—but at least now you know what makes it so interesting.

In many bird species, all the eggs in a nest hatch around the same time. But in others, chicks emerge over a period of several days. This is called asynchronous hatching. It happens when a parent bird starts incubating the eggs right after the first one is laid, instead of waiting until the full clutch is complete. As a result, the first egg gets a head start in development, and each following egg is a little bit behind.

This hatching pattern is common in birds of prey, waterbirds like cormorants and Anhingas, as well as some herons, songbirds, and others.

One main reason for asynchronous hatching is to deal with uncertain food supplies. When food is plentiful, all chicks may survive, even the youngest and smallest. But if food becomes scarce, the oldest chick—being stronger and more developed—has the best chance of survival. In harsh times, the younger chicks may not make it. While this sounds harsh, it’s a natural strategy that increases the odds of at least one chick surviving in poor conditions.

In nests where asynchronous hatching occurs, one can often see clear size differences between the chicks. The older chicks often dominate when it comes to feeding time, especially when the parents bring limited food. The younger siblings sometimes get enough to survive, but in tough seasons, they may be out-competed and end up not receiving enough food to survive. This natural pecking order reduces the parents' burden and aligns survival with food availability.

Some scientists believe asynchronous hatching can also help reduce sibling rivalry in the long term. The oldest chick is so far ahead in development that the others don’t compete on equal terms, so instead of all fighting each other constantly, a clear hierarchy is formed. This can mean less energy spent on aggressive interactions in the nest.

Another theory is that parents use this method as a kind of insurance policy. If something happens to the older chick—like illness or predation—the younger survivors may still survive as "backup" offspring. While they have lower chances of survival, they still offer potential for the parents to pass on their genes if conditions shift.

Some birds, like the Macaroni Penguin, have a different take on asynchronous hatching. The first laid egg is typically around only 60% of the size of the second of two eggs. The first egg is unlikely to survive in these nests, and some mother birds have been observed removing the first egg from the nest upon successfully laying the second, larger egg. 

Other birds, like the Loggerhead Shrike, will start incubating the clutch when the second-to-last egg is laid, resulting in a lopsided asynchronous hatching situation for the final chick.

This nesting strategy isn’t without risks. If the gap between hatching times is too large, the youngest chicks may be too far behind to survive, even in good conditions. 

Asynchronous hatching is a fascinating survival strategy in the bird world. It reflects the incredible adaptability of birds in the face of environmental challenges. By staggering hatch times by simply adjusting the start of incubation, parent birds improve the chances that at least one chick will thrive, even if conditions change quickly.