There is something special about watching birds in flight along the Gulf Coast in the early morning sun — listening to a Wilson’s Plover’s rattle as it defends its territory, or the low bark of a Black Skimmer as it flies somewhere between rays of light reflecting off the water.… Read more >>

Tropical rainforests are among the most diverse and complex ecosystems on our planet. They are home to thousands of colorful, unique bird species, including toucans and parrots. As many as 250 bird species can be found in a 220-acre patch of rainforest — five to six times the number of… Read more >>

Although only four tanager species are found in the United States, these birds hold a special place in the hearts of many thanks to their dazzling plumage. Given these vivid colors, and the fact that most U.S. tanagers occur here only seasonally, it may come as no surprise that these… Read more >>

I think everyone in the bird community has now heard about the incident that took place in Central Park, New York, on May 25. A white woman, Amy Cooper, called the police and falsely accused Christian Cooper (no relation), a Black birder, of threatening her — when in fact he… Read more >>

Found only in the Americas, hummingbirds are distinguished by their dazzling colors, diminutive size, and speedy flight. You might be familiar with some of the more common species in North America, like the Ruby-throated and Rufous Hummingbirds. But there are hundreds of species in the Americas, from Alaska to Tierra… Read more >>

A tale of two songbirds, one wild and vanishing, the other domesticated. Will this story end happily in one of the world’s most challenged countries? On a dreary winter morning, three of us from American Bird Conservancy (ABC) escape the Nation’s Capital sprawl, driving west to the Blue Ridge Mountains.… Read more >>

Editor's note: "ABC Birding" is a new triannual feature that takes readers to birding sites benefiting from ABC and partners’ conservation efforts. Some of these locations permit hunting and visitors are advised to review seasonal hunting dates and take necessary precautions before visiting. Travel may not be advisable for some… Read more >>

Excluding seldom-seen vagrant species, eight New World oriole species occur in the United States (see list below). Thanks to their distinctive orange-and-black or yellow-and-black plumage, orioles are fairly easy to identify. And because they inhabit large portions of the country — and occasionally visit feeders — many Americans are familiar… Read more >>

Since 1970, North America’s grassland birds have lost about half of their population, with an astounding three out of four species declining. These losses are concerning for many reasons, perhaps most of all because bird declines serve as an “alarm” warning of challenges to the health of our land. What’s… Read more >>

Excluding vagrant species, 23 woodpecker species are native to the United States (see list below). Although they vary in form and habit, most of these birds are widespread and can be found relatively easily. While a significant number of woodpecker species maintain healthy populations, none are free from human threats,… Read more >>