Science

Mites Take Flight on Hummingbird Beaks
August 02, 2017 — Sean Graesser’s larger-than-life photos reveal a fascinating, tiny world where hummingbirds carry passengers aloft.
The Silent Flight of Owls, Explained
July 28, 2017 — Even large owls, like Barred and Barn Owls, manage to fly nearly silently through the trees. How do they pull it off—and why?
New Research Further Proves Native Plants Offer More Bugs for Birds
July 27, 2017 — The study found that oaks and other native trees deliver a major chunk of the Carolina Chickadee’s insect-intensive diet.
These Birds Like to Wear Makeup
July 21, 2017 — Only a handful of species in the world exhibit a rare behavior that researchers call 'avian cosmetics.' Why, though, isn't always clear.
Watch: Female Hog Island Osprey Defends Remaining Chick From Great Horned Owl
July 21, 2017 — Having already lost two chicks to the raptor, Rachel has been remaining close to the nest and on high alert in a fascinating display of adaptation.
Even a Little Bit of Oil Can Wreck a Bird's Ability to Fly, New Study Shows
July 13, 2017 — Western Sandpipers with oil on less than one-fifth of their feathers have a tough time flying—a finding that underscores the dangers offshore drilling and spills pose on migratory birds.
Like Humans and Apes, Ravens Have the Foresight to Save Up for the Future
July 13, 2017 — A new study proves what birders have long known: Ravens are really, really smart.
As Climate Change Threatens to Push the Bicknell’s Thrush North, Scientists Are Protecting Its Future Habitat Now
July 10, 2017 — In a warmer world, to save rare species, scientists have to proactively protect their future ranges. For this alpine thrush, that means working with foresters in the Canadian mountains.
The 'Smart Nest Box' Provides a Peek Into the Secret Lives of Birds
July 07, 2017 — The high-tech nesting boxes catch feathered families on camera for science, education, and pure entertainment.
How Genetically Modified Mice Could One Day Save Island Birds
July 07, 2017 — CRISPR, a new gene-editing technology, has the potential to help scientists combat invasive predators. But is tinkering with nature worth the risk?