As winter storms still rage across parts of the United States, birds are preparing to move north for spring migration. As temperatures finally warm up, we wonder about how our feathered friends spent the cold, harsh winter months.  When temperatures drop and food becomes scarce, animals have different ways to survive. Some go into hibernation, while others enter a state called torpor. Though they might seem similar, there are key differences between the two. Birds don’t hibernate in the way that mammals like bears do, but many species experience torpor to get through cold nights or periods of food scarcity.

Torpor is a short-term, reversible state of reduced metabolic activity. During torpor, a bird’s body temperature, heart rate, and breathing rate drop significantly, allowing it to conserve energy. This state usually lasts for a few hours, or overnight, helping birds survive cold nights or food shortages. Because torpor is temporary, birds can wake up and become active relatively quickly when needed.

Hibernation, on the other hand, is a prolonged state of dormancy lasting for an extended period, often weeks or months. In hibernation, metabolism slows even more drastically than in torpor, and the animal remains in a low-energy state for an extended time. Many mammals, such as bears, bats, and ground squirrels, hibernate to survive winter conditions. 

Many species rely on torpor to get through difficult conditions. Hummingbirds are among the best-known examples. These tiny birds have incredibly high metabolisms and need to consume a lot of food to maintain their energy levels. When temperatures drop at night, and food is unavailable, hummingbirds may enter torpor to conserve energy. Their body temperature can drop dramatically, sometimes by nearly 50 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing them to survive until morning when they can start feeding again. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are also thought to use torpor as a strategy to conserve energy for future migration, as a way to save up fat stores for the long journey ahead.

Other birds that use torpor include nightjars, swifts, and chickadees. Black-capped Chickadees, for example, enter torpor on especially cold nights, lowering their body temperature by about 20 degrees to reduce energy loss. This ability helps them survive harsh winter conditions in northern climates. 

One of the most persistent bird myths involves swallows and hibernation. For centuries, people believed that swallows spent the winter hibernating underwater! This idea dates back to ancient times when early observers noticed that swallows disappeared during the colder months and assumed they buried themselves in mud beneath lakes and rivers until spring. Some even claimed to have seen swallows emerging from the water when the weather warmed.

In reality, like many species, swallows migrate to warmer climates instead of hibernating. Barn Swallows, for example, travel thousands of miles from North America to Central and South America (or from Europe to Africa -- these birds are fairly cosmopolitan). The myth of swallows hibernating underwater has long been debunked, but it remains a fascinating example of how people once tried to explain mysterious bird behavior before the science of migration was well understood.

Torpor is a crucial survival strategy for many birds, allowing them to conserve energy during cold nights or periods of food scarcity. It may also be used to save up energy for future use, even when weather conditions are mild.  Torpor provides a temporary solution that helps species like hummingbirds, chickadees, and nightjars endure harsh conditions.  Whether by entering torpor or flying thousands of miles to warmer climates, birds have developed remarkable adaptations to make it through challenging seasons.

The Double-crested Cormorant is a fascinating waterbird found across North America. With its long neck, hooked bill, and striking turquoise eyes, this bird is both elegant and efficient. It gets its name from the two small tufts, or "crests," of feathers that appear on adult birds during the breeding season. These crests are typically black but appear as white crests in Alaskan birds, like our cartoon individual. The crests can be subtle and black ones can be hard to see at a distance.

This species is a skilled diver, relying on its webbed feet to propel itself underwater in search of fish. Unlike many other waterbirds, the Double-crested Cormorant does not have fully waterproof feathers (they produce less effective preen oil). This may seem like a disadvantage, but it actually helps the bird dive deeper and stay submerged for longer periods. However, after a fishing session, the cormorant must perch with its wings spread wide to dry in the sun—a characteristic pose that makes them easy to recognize.

Double-crested Cormorants are social birds, often found in groups on lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. They nest in colonies, sometimes with hundreds of pairs sharing the same site. Their nests, made of sticks and lined with softer materials, are built in trees, on the ground, or even on artificial structures like channel markers. During breeding season, the adult birds develop bright orange-yellow facial skin, adding to their striking appearance.

Though they were once threatened by pollution and habitat destruction, Double-crested Cormorants have made a strong comeback in recent decades. Their population declined sharply in the mid-20th century due to the effects of pesticides like DDT, which weakened eggshells and led to poor reproductive success. Conservation efforts and legal protections have helped their numbers rebound, and today, they are a common sight across much of their range.

Despite their success, these birds are sometimes viewed as a nuisance by fishermen, as they consume large amounts of fish. However, they play an important role in the ecosystem, helping to maintain balance in fish populations. Their unique adaptations and behaviors make them a fascinating species to observe in the wild.

Next time you’re near a body of water, keep an eye out for a dark, long-necked bird drying its wings in the sun—it just might be a Double-crested Cormorant!

This week we're shining a spotlight on one of our newest designs, featuring our European Robin. The European Robin Hood design is a playful blend of nature and folklore, combining the cute charm of the European Robin with the legendary Robin Hood. This adorable bird dons a classic bycocket hat, a medieval-style cap with a turned-up brim and a feather—an iconic look often associated with Robin Hood. The design captures both the whimsy of the natural world and the adventurous spirit of one of England's most famous folk heroes.

The European Robin is a beloved songbird found across the continent, recognized for its bright orange-red breast and friendly nature. In folklore and tradition, it is often seen as a symbol of joy and good luck. This little bird has a bold personality, sometimes even approaching humans in gardens and woodlands. With its inquisitive nature and bright appearance, the European Robin is a perfect match for the legendary outlaw who roamed Sherwood Forest.

As an aside, did you know that the American Robin was named by European settlers who were reminded of the beloved European Robin, often called "Robin Redbreast," due to its similar shape and reddish-orange breast? Despite the resemblance, the two birds are not closely related. The European Robin belongs to the flycatcher family, while the American Robin is a member of the thrush family. The name "robin" stuck, even though the American Robin is larger and behaves more like a true thrush than its European namesake.

Robin Hood’s story has been told for centuries, evolving from medieval ballads to books, films, and TV shows. The folk hero is famous for standing up against injustice, stealing from the rich to help the poor, and outwitting the corrupt Sheriff of Nottingham. Along with his band of Merry Men, he became a symbol of resistance and fairness, inspiring countless adaptations and retellings. His signature bycocket hat, often made of felt or leather and featuring a feather, has become one of the most recognizable elements of his look, and makes our cartoon character instantly recognizable. 

Our European Robin Hood design is a fun and creative way to celebrate both birds and folklore. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast, a history buff, or a fan of Robin Hood’s legendary exploits, this adorable bird-as-folk-hero design is sure to bring a smile to your face. Available on a variety of products, including t-shirts, hoodies, pillows, and tote bags, it makes a great gift for anyone who loves birds or enjoys a good tale of heroism and adventure.

Embrace the spirit of the forest and add a little medieval flair to your bird-loving world with this delightful Birdorable creation!

How long do birds live? The answer depends on the species. Some tiny songbirds only live a couple of years, while certain parrots and seabirds can outlive humans! But have you ever wondered how bird lifespans compare to human ages? If a parrot lives to be 80, how old would that be in "human years"? Let’s explore bird longevity, some record-breaking birds, and how we know their ages.

Bird lifespans vary widely. Small birds like chickadees or sparrows typically live 2 to 5 years in the wild. A 3-year-old American Robin would be middle-aged, while a 10-year-old robin would be ancient, comparatively speaking. The longevity record for American Robin in the wild is 13 years, 11 months for an individual banded in California in 1962. In contrast, larger birds like eagles and parrots can live for decades. Bald Eagles often reach 20 to 30 years in the wild, and some parrots, like macaws, can surpass 50 or even 80 years. The longevity record for Bald Eagle in the wild is 38 years for an individual banded in New York in 1977. For more information about the longevity records for wild North American birds, visit Historical Longevity Records of North American Birds.

One of the most famous long-lived birds is Wisdom, a Laysan Albatross. She was first banded in 1956 as an adult, making her at least 73 years old today—the oldest known wild bird! Despite her age, she continues to lay eggs and raise chicks. Another record-holder is Cookie, a Major Mitchell’s Cockatoo, who lived to be 83 years old in captivity at Chicago’s Brookfield Zoo.

To compare bird ages to human years, some people use a rough formula similar to dog years. One simple method is multiplying a bird’s age by 5 to 6 for small birds and by 2 to 3 for long-lived species. For example, a 10-year-old Budgerigar might be considered roughly the equivalent of 50 to 60 in human years, while a 40-year-old African Gray Parrot could be like an 80- to 100-year-old person.

Many of the longest-lived bird records have been tracked through bird banding, also called ringing. Scientists place small, numbered bands on birds’ legs, allowing researchers to identify the same individual years or even decades later. In captivity, we can track birth records to know exactly how old pet or zoo birds are.

Bird longevity records also include some famous final farewells. Martha, the last Passenger Pigeon, died in 1914 at around 29 years old, marking the extinction of her species. The last known Carolina Parakeet, Incas, died in 1918 at the Cincinnati Zoo at at least 33 years of age. More recently, Flaco, a Eurasian Eagle-Owl that escaped from the Central Park Zoo in 2023, survived for about a year in the wild before his death in 2024. Hatched in captivity in 2010, Flaco was 13 years old at the time of his death.

Longevity of captive birds compared to their wild counterparts demonstrates the dangers of living a life in the wild. The longest known lived wild Harris's Hawk was just 19 years and 4 months old when it was found dead on the side of the road in Texas; the longest lived captive Harris's Hawk was a beloved ambassador bird who recently passed at nearly 38 years old.

While some birds live incredibly long lives, most face challenges like predation, habitat loss, and disease. Still, many species continue to surprise researchers with their longevity. Whether it’s a backyard bird or a century-old parrot, each bird's life is a fascinating look into the world of avian aging.

The Knob-billed Duck is a unique and striking waterfowl species found in tropical wetlands across sub-Saharan Africa and parts of south Asia. Closely related to the similar-looking Comb Duck, this large duck is easily recognized by the prominent roundish knob on the bills of males, a feature that gives the species its name.

Males are larger than females and sport a noticeable black, fleshy knob on top of their bill, which becomes more pronounced during the breeding season. Both sexes have a glossy black head and upper body, often speckled with white, while their underparts are mostly white. Their wings are iridescent green and blue, adding to their striking appearance, especially in flight.

Knob-billed Ducks prefer freshwater habitats like lakes, marshes, and slow-moving rivers, where they forage for seeds, aquatic plants, and small invertebrates. Unlike many duck species, they frequently perch in trees, and nest in tree hollows or dense vegetation near water. They are known for their somewhat loose social structure, sometimes forming small groups but often seen alone or in pairs.

A fascinating aspect of Knob-billed Duck behavior is their polygamous breeding system. The word polygamous means having more than one breeding partner. In nature, some animals are polygamous, meaning one animal may have many mates instead of just one. Male Knob-billed Ducks may mate with multiple female ducks, and nests often contain eggs from different mother birds. Males have been known to have "harems" of up to four female birds, with one female being dominant over the others. After hatching, ducklings are cared for by the females, while males do not take part in raising the young.

Although the species is not currently threatened, habitat destruction and hunting pressure have caused local declines in some areas. Their widespread range helps ensure their survival, but conservation efforts are important to protect their wetland habitats.

The Knob-billed Duck joined our Birdorable waterfowl family in November, 2013.

Owls are often thought of as creatures of the night, silently hunting in the darkness with their piercing eyes and ghostly flight. While it’s true that many owl species are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night, not all owls fit this stereotype. Some owls are crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk, while others are diurnal and hunt during the day. The belief that all owls are strictly nocturnal is a myth, likely influenced by the mysterious nature of these birds and the way they are commonly portrayed in folklore and media.

Crepuscular owls, like the Barred Owl and Short-eared Owl, are active during twilight hours. This hunting strategy allows them to take advantage of lighting conditions that make it easier to spot prey while avoiding competition with fully nocturnal predators. Crepuscular activity can also be influenced by food availability and seasonal changes. Many owls that are usually nocturnal may shift to crepuscular activity if their preferred prey is more active at dawn or dusk.

Some owls are fully diurnal, meaning they are most active during daylight hours. The Burrowing Owl, for example, is a daytime hunter that lives in open grasslands and deserts. Unlike most owls that prefer dense forests, Burrowing Owls live in underground burrows, often taking over tunnels made by prairie dogs or other small mammals. They hunt insects and small vertebrates during the day, making them one of the most visible owl species. The Northern Hawk Owl is another diurnal owl, found in northern forests where it hunts rodents and small birds in broad daylight.

So why do people assume all owls are nocturnal? The main reason is that the most well-known owl species, like the Great Horned Owl and the Barn Owl, are most active at night. Their large, forward-facing eyes, specialized for low-light vision, reinforce the idea that all owls must prefer darkness.

Additionally, owls are often depicted in myths, stories, and pop culture as night-dwelling creatures, adding to the misconception. Since many owl species are elusive and hard to spot, people mainly encounter them at night through their haunting calls, further strengthening the belief that owls only come out after dark.

Understanding the different activity patterns of owls helps birdwatchers and nature lovers appreciate the diversity within this fascinating bird family. Whether they hunt under the moonlight, in the golden glow of twilight, or in the bright sun of midday, owls have adapted to a variety of ecological niches. The next time you hear an owl’s call or spot one in the wild, remember that not all of them are creatures of the night.

Birds have a unique way of keeping their feathers in top shape, thanks to a special gland called the uropygial gland. Also known as the preen gland, this small but important organ is located near the base of a bird’s tail. It produces an oily secretion that birds spread over their feathers during preening, helping to keep them clean, flexible, and waterproof. Birds apply the oil by rubbing their beak or head against the gland and then spreading it over their body.

Not all birds have a uropygial gland, but for those that do, it plays a crucial role in feather maintenance. The oil provides waterproofing, which is especially important for water birds like ducks and swans. When they preen, they distribute the oil across their feathers, creating a protective barrier that keeps water from soaking in. This is why ducks can swim without getting waterlogged.

Most swans, ducks, and geese have highly active uropygial glands that keep their feathers super waterproof. This allows them to float effortlessly without getting waterlogged. If a duck’s gland stops working or is damaged, it can lose buoyancy and struggle in the water. That’s why preening is such an important part of a duck’s daily routine!

Unlike many waterbirds, Anhingas have a reduced uropygial gland, meaning they produce very little waterproofing oil for their feathers. As a result, their feathers become easily waterlogged, which actually helps them dive and swim underwater more efficiently to catch fish. However, this also means they need to dry off frequently, which is why Anhingas are often seen perched with their wings spread wide in the sun. This classic pose helps them dry their feathers and regulate their body temperature after a long swim!

The oil from the uropygial gland has other functions besides waterproofing; it helps condition feathers, preventing them from becoming brittle or breaking. 

For example, while most owls have uropygial glands, their feathers are designed for silent flight rather than swimming. Their preen oil is not used for waterproofing, which is why they absorb water easily. 

In addition to waterproofing and conditioning, the oil from the uropygial gland may also have antimicrobial properties. Some studies suggest that it helps protect against bacteria and fungi that could damage feathers. 

Flamingos, like the Chilean Flamingo and Greater Flamingo, use their uropygial gland oil not just for waterproofing—but also as a sort of cosmetic! They actively rub the preen oil onto their feathers to enhance their pink color. This behavior is especially noticeable during breeding season when they want to look their brightest to attract a mate. A flamingo that applies more oil appears more vibrant and may have better luck finding a partner!

Uropygial gland secretions in Spotless Starlings have been shown to have an odor that may help birds identify one another. The specific scents can indicate personal demographic information (like age, and reproductive status) to other birds!

Some species, like parrots, lack a uropygial gland and rely on powder down feathers instead, which produce a fine dust that helps with feather maintenance.

The uropygial gland is a fascinating adaptation that helps birds stay in peak condition. Whether it's keeping feathers waterproof, flexible, attractive, or free from harmful microbes, this small gland plays a big role in a bird’s daily life.

Birdorable loves birds, and we love when others share their passion for birds, too! Last year, we were interested to hear from Megan LaRocque, a Master of Science student at the University of Alberta in Canada. Megan reached out to us with a special request—she wanted to use one of our Birdorable illustrations in a special presentation about her research on Black-capped Chickadees. Of course, we said yes!

Megan’s research focuses on chickadee behavior, specifically whether these small songbirds use information from their flock mates when deciding whether or not to visit an empty feeder. Chickadees are highly social birds, and their ability to learn from each other is an interesting topic for scientists who study animal behavior.

As part of her studies, Megan participated in the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition. This event, originally developed by the University of Queensland in Australia and now part of institutions all over the world, challenges graduate students to present their research in just three minutes using a single static slide. The goal is to explain complex scientific work in a way that a general audience can understand—no easy task!

Megan competed against 50 other participants across different fields and made it to the Finals Round at the University of Alberta. 

For her presentation, Megan wanted to include our Birdorable Black-capped Chickadee on her slide. We were honored to support her work and excited to see Birdorable featured in a scientific competition!

It's always rewarding to see Birdorable art used in meaningful ways, especially when it helps spread knowledge about birds and their behavior. We appreciate Megan for reaching out and wish her the best in her research and future competitions. If you’d like to see her presentation, you can check it out here: To Go or Not to Go.

Birds can be EXTRA too! In this design spotlight, we’re featuring a flamboyant and fun Birdorable species of hummingbird, the Tufted Coquette. This little one isn’t afraid to show off. Bursting with color, personality, and style, this quirky illustration is perfect for bird lovers who embrace their bold side.

What happens when you combine a cute cartoon hummingbird with a pop of vibrant color and a splash of attitude? You get this unapologetically bold design!

The Tufted Coquette features:

• A fabulous orange crest styled like a wild hairdo
• Eye-catching spots and patterns on its wings
• A magnificent two-tone beak

This design is a celebration of all things flamboyant and fun—a true ode to those who stand out from the flock! Whether it’s the vibrant bird itself or the loud-and-proud text, this design screams “be you, be EXTRA!”

Our unique “EXTRA” Tufted Coquette design is perfect for:

• Birders with personality who like a splash of humor
• Fans of colorful, bold bird designs
• Nature enthusiasts who celebrate uniqueness
• Anyone who loves standing out (or knows someone who does!)

This design is available on a variety of fun products that make great gifts for kids, adults, or anyone with an extra flair for life:

• T-Shirts for colorful, casual wear
• Tote Bags for outings with style
• Mugs to brighten up your coffee breaks
• Phone Cases to showcase your bold side
• Pillows to add a playful touch to your home

No matter where you take it or how you display it, this design brings a cheerful pop of personality wherever it goes. Birdorable’s “EXTRA” hummingbird design reminds us to celebrate our quirks, stand out, and have a little fun. Whether you’re rocking this design on a tee, gifting it to your favorite flamboyant birder, or decorating your space with its cheerful energy, it’s sure to bring smiles and a little extra flair to everyday life.

Be bold. Be colorful. Be EXTRA.

Penguins are often associated with icy landscapes and freezing temperatures, but the idea that they only live in cold climates is a common misconception. While some penguins thrive in frigid regions like Antarctica, many species are perfectly adapted to warmer environments.

Of the 18 recognized penguin species, only a few are true residents of Antarctica. Emperor Penguins and Adélie Penguins are the most iconic Antarctic dwellers, braving extreme cold and harsh winds. However, most penguin species actually prefer temperate or tropical climates. For instance, Galápagos Penguins are found on the equator, living on the volcanic shores of the Galápagos Islands. Their environment is far from icy—temperatures there can soar, and they rely on cold ocean currents to keep cool.

Other warm-weather penguins include the Humboldt Penguin of South America, which inhabits coastal deserts along the Pacific Ocean in Peru and Chile. These penguins use burrows and rocky crevices to escape the sun's heat. Similarly, African Penguins, also called "Jackass Penguins" for their braying call, are found on the beaches of southern Africa. They face challenges like sunburn and heat stress, adapting by nesting in shaded areas and being active during cooler parts of the day.

Even penguins in cooler climates don’t necessarily live in snow and ice year-round. Magellanic Penguins, for example, breed in Argentina and Chile, where summers are mild and even hot. They dig burrows to raise their chicks, keeping them sheltered from the elements.

What unites all penguin species is their dependence on the ocean for food and their unique adaptations to aquatic life. Penguins are excellent swimmers, using their streamlined bodies and powerful flippers to catch fish, krill, and squid. Their feathers are highly specialized, providing insulation and waterproofing, whether they’re swimming in icy waters or basking under the sun.

So why does the "penguins only live in cold places" myth persist? Media portrayals like movies and documentaries often focus on Antarctic penguins because of their dramatic and challenging environment. The stark contrast between the penguins' cute appearance and the harsh Antarctic wilderness makes for compelling storytelling. But in reality, penguins are far more diverse and versatile.

This myth also underscores the importance of understanding and protecting penguins in all their habitats. Whether they live on an icy expanse or a sun-soaked beach, penguins face threats from climate change, overfishing, and habitat destruction. By debunking myths and learning about their true lives, we can better appreciate these fascinating birds and take steps to help conserve them.

Next time you see a penguin-themed story or a cartoon set in Antarctica, remember: not all penguins are waddling around in the snow. Many are basking on sunny shores, thriving in environments far removed from the icy stereotype.