Brown Creeper Song American Bird Conservancy 2016-04-13 | The tiny Brown Creeper is named for its distinctive feeding behavior. Starting at the bottom of a tree, it creeps up; when it reaches the top of the tree, it flutters down to the base of the next and begins circling up again. It never descends trees head-first like a nuthatch—this bird is always moving upward!Like the endangered Northern Spotted Owl and Marbled Murrelet, the Brown Creeper favors mature forests with large trees. Habitat loss and fragmentation have caused the species to decline in many parts of its range. It is also a frequent victim of window collisions.Audio: http://www.xeno-canto.org/101962 ; Mike Nelson; Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee
Habitat is Hope: Conservation Across Birds Migration Journey | ABC Webinar American Bird Conservancy 2023-04-24 | Join American Bird Conservancy (ABC) for an exciting webinar to travel through key habitats that migratory birds, like the Wood Thrush, rely on as they journey north for spring migration.Our first stop will be the wintering grounds in places like Nicaragua and Honduras, where ABC and partners are working with farmers to improve bird habitat in shade-grown coffee and cacao farms as well as other types of working lands. Then we'll go to the breeding grounds in places like Appalachia, as we discuss some of our forestry work to support these birds and their nesting habitats. Finally, we'll explore how technology is connecting these two places and enabling us to track the paths of migratory birds to inform our conservation efforts.Please consider supporting ABC's Habitat is Hope 1:1 match at http://abcbirds.org/HabitatHopePresentations:- 00:00:00 - Introduction by Jordan Rutter, Director of Communications, American Bird Conservancy (ABC)- 00:6:15 - Marci Eggers- 00:14:14 -Andres Anchondo- 00:25:02 - Liz Brewer- 00:34:45 - Adam Smith- 00:47:01 - Q&A
Recomendaciones para cultivos de café o cacao amigables con las aves. // Bird-friendly coffee/cacao American Bird Conservancy 2023-04-14 | Aquí le damos una serie de recomendaciones para que los cultivo de café y cacao provean de hábitat a las aves y otra fauna silvestre mientras se mejora la productividad del cultivo y se reducen algunos costos. Para más información nos puede escribir a mejorespracticas@abcbirds.org. // Here we share a series of recommendations to create bird and wildlife-friendly coffee or cacao farms, improve productivity, and reduce some costs. For more information send us an email to mejorespracticas@abcbirds.org Infografía con estas recomendaciones // Infographic with these recommendations: abcbirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/01_Cacao-y-Cafe.pdf
Recomendaciones para ganandería amigable con las aves. // Bird-friendly cattle ranching American Bird Conservancy 2023-04-14 | Aquí le damos una serie de recomendaciones para su rancho ganadero provea de hábitat a las aves y otra fauna silvestre mientras se conservan los pastizales y se reducen algunos costos. Para más información nos puede escribir a mejorespracticas@abcbirds.org. // Here we share a series of recommendations for your ranch to be bird and wildlife-friendly, conserve grasslands, and reduce some costs. For more information send us an email to mejorespracticas@abcbirds.org Infografía con estas recomendaciones // Infographic with these recommendations: abcbirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/02_Pastoreo.pdf
Recomendaciones para ganadería con árboles (silvopasturas) amigable con las aves. // Silvopastures. American Bird Conservancy 2023-04-14 | Aquí le damos una serie de recomendaciones para que sus potreros provean de hábitat a las aves y otra fauna silvestre mientras se mejora la productividad del ganado y se reducen algunos costos. Para más información nos puede escribir a mejorespracticas@abcbirds.org. // Here we share a series of recommendations to make your paddocks bird and wildlife-friendly, improve productivity, and reduce some costs. For more information send us an email to mejorespracticas@abcbirds.orgInfografía con estas recomendaciones // Infographic with these recommendations: abcbirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/03_Silvopasturas.pdf
Recomendaciones para una reforetación amigable con las aves. // Bird-friendly reforestation. American Bird Conservancy 2023-04-14 | Aquí le damos una serie de recomendaciones para llevar a cabo una reforestación exitosa y que provea de hábitat a las aves y otra fauna silvestre. Para más información nos puede escribir a mejorespracticas@abcbirds.org. // Here we share a series of recommendations to implement a successful reforestation project that is bird and wildlife-friendly. For more information send us an email to mejorespracticas@abcbirds.orgInfografía con estas recomendaciones // Infographic with these recommendations: abcbirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/04_Reforestacion.pdf
Recomendaciones para cultivos de arroz amigables con las aves. // Bird-friendly rice farm. American Bird Conservancy 2023-04-14 | Aquí le damos una serie de recomendaciones para que su cultivo de arroz provea de hábitat a las aves y otra fauna silvestre mientras se mejora la productividad del cultivo y se reducen algunos costos. Para más información nos puede escribir a mejorespracticas@abcbirds.org. // Here we share a series of recommendations to create bird and wildlife-friendly rice farms, improve productivity, and reduce some costs. For more information send us an email to mejorespracticas@abcbirds.org Infografía con estas recomendaciones // Infographic with these recommendations: abcbirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/05_Arroz.pdf
Recomendaciones para cultivos de cardamomo y pimienta negra amigables con las aves. //Cardamom American Bird Conservancy 2023-04-14 | Aquí le damos una serie de recomendaciones para que los cultivo de cardamomo y pimienta negra provean de hábitat a las aves y otra fauna silvestre mientras se mejora la productividad del cultivo y se reducen algunos costos. Para más información nos puede escribir a mejorespracticas@abcbirds.org. // Here we share a series of recommendations to create bird and wildlife-friendly cardamom or black pepper farms, improve productivity, and reduce some costs. For more information send us an email to mejorespracticas@abcbirds.orgInfografía con estas recomendaciones // Infographic with these recommendations: abcbirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/07_Cardamomo-y-pimienta-negra.pdf
Recomendaciones para plantaciones de caucho/hule amigables con las aves. //Bird-friendly Rubber American Bird Conservancy 2023-04-14 | Aquí le damos una serie de recomendaciones para que su plantación de caucho/hule provea de hábitat a las aves y otra fauna silvestre mientras se mantiene la productividad de la plantación. Para más información nos puede escribir a mejorespracticas@abcbirds.org. // Here we share a series of recommendations to create bird and wildlife-friendly rubber plantations while maintaining productivity. For more information send us an email to mejorespracticas@abcbirds.org Infografía con estas recomendaciones // Infographic with these recommendations: abcbirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Caucho.pdf
Bairds Sparrow: Prairie Songbird American Bird Conservancy 2023-04-04 | The Baird's Sparrow and its close relative the Henslow's Sparrow are the only two species in the genus Centronyx (meaning spurred claw). This name refers to these birds' long hind toes, a feature found in other ground-dwelling grassland birds such as the Chestnut-collared Longspur.This species is very secretive, preferring to run through the grass when flushed, instead of flying. Yet even when sighted, it can still be difficult to tell apart from other grassland sparrows, such as the Grasshopper Sparrow.What are the telltale marks of a Baird's Sparrow?Read more: abcbirds.org/bird/bairds-sparrow
Willow Ptarmigan: Rabbit Foot American Bird Conservancy 2023-04-04 | Although related to other grouse-like birds such as the Northern Bobwhite and Greater Prairie-Chicken, the three tundra-dwelling ptarmigan species are in a genus all their own. The Willow Ptarmigan is the largest. It inhabits alpine and subalpine habitats, where its plumage changes with the seasons to keep the bird effectively camouflaged year-round. During brief Arctic summers, the Willow Ptarmigan’s chestnut-, brown-, and gold-mottled feathers make it almost invisible against the flourishing tundra. During this time, bare combs of red skin (which both sexes have but that are often concealed) become prominent in males. In winter, the Willow Ptarmigan molts into pure-white plumage to match its snowy surroundings. The Willow Ptarmigan is beautifully adapted for life in the far north. What are some of the especially interesting adaptations this bird has developed to survive in the most challenging conditions?Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/willow-ptarmigan
Evening Grosbeak: Winter Wanderer American Bird Conservancy 2023-04-04 | One Evening Grosbeak is a spectacular sight, but a flock of these big finches is unforgettable — an ever-shifting symphony of rich yellows, browns, and grays, set off by bright black-and-white accents. Although the females are less conspicuously colored, their size and large bills still make them standouts. In fact, the Evening Grosbeak’s genus name Coccothraustes means “kernel-cracker,” a nod to this bird’s powerful bill.Early English settlers dubbed this species the “Evening” Grosbeak in the mistaken belief that it came out of the woods to sing only after sundown. French settlers gave it a more appropriate appellation: le gros-bec errant (the wandering big-bill, or grosbeak).Like other winter finch species such as the Pine Siskin, Pine Grosbeak, and Purple Finch, the Evening Grosbeak is only an intermittent visitor to backyard feeders. In many years, it does not appear in some regions at all. What accounts for these irregular winter wanderings? Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/evening-grosbeak
Lark Bunting: Troubadour of the Plains American Bird Conservancy 2023-04-04 | The male Lark Bunting completely changes in appearance for the breeding season, molting from streaky brown-and-gray plumage (resembling a female or juvenile) to jet-black with bold white wing patches. Over the years, this flashy combination inspired other names such as white-winged blackbird and white-winged bunting. This is a gregarious species, found in large flocks that sometimes number in the thousands during migration and in winter. Lark Buntings even nest together in loose colonies on dry western grasslands, where they breed alongside species such as the Horned Lark and Mountain Plover.The species’ common name, Lark Bunting, is a serious misnomer: After all, this bird is neither a lark nor a bunting. So, what is it then? Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/lark-bunting
Broad-billed Tody: Sprite in Green and Pink American Bird Conservancy 2023-04-04 | The diminutive Broad-billed Tody is only about the size of a Northern Parula warbler — but this tropical bird has a vibe all its own. Although tiny, the tody has a proportionately large head and long bill, resembling a mini-kingfisher. As it zips through the foliage, it flashes glowing, emerald-green upperparts, a vivid red throat, fluffy pink sides, and a bright yellow-white belly and undertail. The Broad-billed Tody is part of a unique bird family found only in one region. Where in the world can a birdwatcher track down a tody?Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/broad-billed-tody
Kirtlands Warbler: Jack Pine Bird American Bird Conservancy 2023-04-04 | The handsome Kirtland's Warbler is one of North America’s larger warblers. At a glance, it could be mistaken for a Yellow-rumped Warbler, but it has an entirely lemon-yellow underside, a distinctive tail-bobbing habit like a Prairie Warbler, and a gray, rather than yellow, rump. This species was named for Dr. Jared Kirtland, whose Ohio farm yielded one of the first specimens of this species in 1851. The Kirtland’s Warbler is a rare sight, since it has specific habitat requirements and a very limited range. In fact, the species depends upon continued habitat management to keep its populations from dipping. What does it take to keep the Kirtland’s Warbler off the endangered species list?Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/kirtlands-warbler
Savannah Sparrow: Country Bird American Bird Conservancy 2023-04-04 | The Savannah Sparrow is one of North America’s most numerous songbirds, yet it is not as well-known as other common birds such as the American Robin and Red-winged Blackbird and its cousins the Song Sparrow and White-throated Sparrow. That’s because the Savannah Sparrow is not a frequent backyard visitor, but rather a bird of grasslands and other expansive wide-open spaces. Like many other grassland birds, this species is in decline. The Savannah Sparrow does not have bright colors; its plumage, streaked with browns and grays, serves it well as camouflage. It resembles the Song Sparrow but is generally paler, with a shorter tail, finer streaks, pointier bill — and a telltale dab of yellow between eye and bill. Formerly called the Ground Sparrow, this unassuming little bird holds exciting mysteries that scientists are still trying to solve. What are some of the Savannah Sparrow’s revealed secrets, and how does this species recall legendary birds from far-away islands? Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/savannah-sparrow
Gray-breasted Parakeet | 2023 Conservation Update American Bird Conservancy 2023-04-04 | Found only in a few small areas in northeastern Brazil, the Gray-breasted Parakeet faced decades of deforestation and decline. It is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, along with 16 other “New World” species including the Santa Marta Parakeet and El Oro Parakeet.Now, however, Gray-breasted Parakeet recovery is a shining example of what conservationists can achieve in a relatively short amount of time with the right resources and community support. Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/news/gray-breasted-parakeet-reintroduction
Gray-breasted Parakeet: Sky Island Bird American Bird Conservancy 2023-04-04 | The Gray-breasted Parakeet is a rainbow of colors, its bright-green plumage punctuated by a reddish belly, rump, tail, and shoulders; a light gray, scaly breast; and white ear patches. Add a maroon face, some bluish highlights, and a spotted gray cap, and suddenly the common name Gray-breasted seems not to aptly represent this pretty species. (Or does it? Read on our website to find out why the name is useful.)Found only in a few small areas in northeastern Brazil, this species faced decades of deforestation and decline. It is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, along with 16 other “New World” species including the Santa Marta Parakeet and El Oro Parakeet.The Gray-breasted Parakeet was once thought to belong to a more widespread species. Which species was it split from, and what led to its designation as a separate species?Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/gray-breasted-parakeet
American Avocet: Graceful Shorebird American Bird Conservancy 2023-03-29 | The elegant American Avocet is a striking sight at any time of the year. This gregarious shorebird is a close relative of another eye-catching bird, the Black-necked Stilt. Both species have long necks and legs and flashy black-and-white plumage. However, the head, neck, and upper chest of the American Avocet are whitish and then turn a rich rusty-peach color during breeding season. The avocet’s long, pastel-blue legs (very different from the stilt’s bright-pink striders) earned it the folk name "blue shanks."The word avocet comes from the Italian avosetta, which means “graceful bird.” This bird’s genus name, Recurvirostra, also describes a distinctive feature of this bird. What is it?Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/american-avocet
Dickcissel: Nomadic Nester American Bird Conservancy 2023-03-20 | The male Dickcissel resembles a big sparrow or miniature meadowlark, with a black, V-shaped throat patch contrasting its bright yellow breast. The female is duller overall, lacking the throat patch and having only a faint hint of yellow on the chest. Both sexes have a large, thick bill resembling that of a Northern Cardinal or Rose-breasted Grosbeak. This species was once known as the “Black-throated Bunting,” although it’s not closely related to either the “Old World” bunting species of Eurasia or “New World” buntings in the genus Passerina, such as the Blue Grosbeak or Indigo Bunting. In fact, the Dickcissel continues to confound ornithologists’ efforts to find a perfect perch for this species on the “family tree” of songbirds. Just where does this enigmatic grassland bird fit in?Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/dickcissel
Blue-eyed Ground-Dove 2023 Conservation Update American Bird Conservancy 2023-03-09 | Learn about the latest work to conserve the Blue-eyed Ground Dove, a species rediscovered in 2015.With a population estimated at just 15 birds, the Blue-eyed Ground-Dove is one of the rarest birds in Brazil. The species was considered extinct until 2015, when ornithologist Rafael Bessa made the discovery of a lifetime. Bessa recorded the call and played it back, bringing a Blue-eyed Ground-Dove into view. This 2015 sighting was the first in 75 years and took place well to the east of this species' known range.Since the dove's rediscovery, American Bird Conservancy (ABC) partner SAVE Brasil has been working to find and protect remaining individuals. The next decade will be a crucial time for stabilizing the species' tiny population so this bird does not vanish once again. Read more about the Blue-eyed Ground-Dove: abcbirds.org/bird/blue-eyed-ground-dove/.
Dusky Tetraka: Rediscovered in Madagascar After Eluding Scientists for 24 Years American Bird Conservancy 2023-03-01 | The Dusky Tetraka, a small olive-colored and yellow-throated bird that hops around on the ground and has eluded ornithologists for 24 years, was rediscovered by an expedition team searching the tropical forests of northeastern Madagascar. The expedition team, led by The Peregrine Fund’s Madagascar Program, found the species in two different remote sites: one on the Masoala peninsula in late December 2022 and another near Andapa in January this year. The last documented sighting of the Dusky Tetraka was in 1999, making it one of the top 10 most wanted lost birds by the Search for Lost Birds, a collaboration between American Bird Conservancy (ABC), BirdLife International, and Re:wild.Learn more about this rediscovery: abcbirds.org/news/dusky-tetraka-rediscovered/.
From Working Land to Table: Strengthening the U.S. Farm Bill for Farmers and Birds | ABC Webinar American Bird Conservancy 2023-02-28 | From the food on our table to the wood used to build the table, the U.S. Farm Bill has a huge impact on agricultural production. This $500 billion legislation is also the largest source of conservation funding in the world, and has helped conserve and restore bird habitat in millions of acres across the U.S.The Farm Bill is up for reauthorization this year, and we have an opportunity to build on past successes and make it the strongest yet for birds.Learn about some of the key areas and initiatives that make this bill so critically important for birds. You'll hear about various collaborations with farmers, ranchers, and other landowners to ensure that their lands can help birds survive and thrive.Presentations:- 00:00:00 - Introduction by Jordan Rutter, Director of Communications, American Bird Conservancy (ABC)- 00:04:50 - ABC's Bird Saver Farm Bill Platform Ideas by Steve Riley, Director of Farm Bill Policy, ABC- 00:12:40 - Farm Bill programs in the Oaks and Prairies and Edwards Plateau Bird Conservation Region by Robert Perez, Oaks and Prairies Joint Venture Coordinator, ABC- 00:19:26 - How the Honey Creek/Edgerock Ranch is using Farm Bill programs to conserve bird habitat by Seth Coffey, Oklahoma landowner- 00:28:23 - Managing for Cerulean Warblers through a Farm Bill conservation program by Amanda Duren, Director of Conservation Partnerships, Appalachian Mountains Joint Venture, ABC- 00:37:16 - Q&A
Araripe Manakin 2023 Conservation Program Update American Bird Conservancy 2023-02-17 | The Araripe Manakin is threatened by habitat loss due to agriculture and human settlement. This bird is ranked both as a Critically Endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and as an Alliance for Zero Extinction (AZE) “trigger” species — a designation only given to highly localized species that will likely go extinct if they lose their last remaining one or few sites.In 2014, ABC helped Aquasis (aquasis.org/oasisararipe?lang=en) purchase 140 acres of critical habitat in a prime breeding area for the Araripe Manakin. Four years later, the partners acquired an additional 170 acres, more than doubling the size of the existing reserve and connecting it to the much larger Araripe National Forest, protecting new breeding territories for this and other rare species, including the Yellow-faced Siskin.With ABC support, Aquasis and the Araripe Manakin Conservation Project run an experimental tree nursery, control invasive plants, and are beginning a long-term habitat restoration initiative with local partners. These conservation efforts will help preserve not only the Araripe Manakin, but also other species that share its restricted habitat, such as the Silvery-cheeked Antshrike and White-browed Antpitta.Learn more about the Araripe Manakin: abcbirds.org/bird/araripe-manakin/.Video by Bennett Hennessey
Sharp-tailed Grouse: One Tough Bird American Bird Conservancy 2023-02-09 | The Sharp-tailed Grouse is closely related to Lesser and Greater Prairie-Chickens, but has several characteristics that set it apart: The “Sharptail” has a white-edged, wedge-shaped tail with two long central feathers that give it an elongated, spiky appearance. Also, the male has an inflatable purple air sac on its neck, unlike the yellow or orange neck sacs of male prairie-chickens. In general, this grouse’s pale belly and spotted plumage give it a frosted appearance distinct from the darker, barred plumage of its near relatives. The Sharp-tailed Grouse’s distribution extends much farther north than those of its prairie-chicken cousins, and this species has special adaptations for colder climes.What helps this pointy-tailed bird thrive in frigid conditions?Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/sharp-tailed-grouse
Sprague’s Pipit: Spirit in the Sky American Bird Conservancy 2023-01-31 | The Sprague’s Pipit is a grassland songbird native to North America, with buffy, striped plumage that blends in seamlessly with its preferred habitat. Although it can be mistaken for other species such as the Vesper Sparrow or the closely related American Pipit, the Sprague’s Pipit has a thin bill, unlike the sparrow, and a more strongly streaked back than its relative, plus an unmarked face that gives it a wide-eyed look. Normally inconspicuous and solitary, the Sprague’s Pipit shines during its breeding season due to a unique courtship ritual. How does this normally hidden species steal the spotlight each spring?Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/spragues-pipit
Northern Pintail: Pointy Duck American Bird Conservancy 2023-01-26 | The handsome Northern Pintail is one of North America’s most widespread ducks, especially in the West, though it is not nearly as abundant as the more familiar Mallard. This species is distinctive both on the water and in flight. Both female and male are more streamlined than the Mallard, with long, slender necks, smallish heads, and slim bodies. In addition, the adult male sports the species’ namesake pointed tail. The rest of the drake, or male, pintail’s plumage is quietly elegant, with a dark brown head accented by a white stripe and otherwise white neck and breast. The female is a plainer combination of mottled brown, tan, and white, but can still be fairly easily identified thanks to her long neck and slender proportions. The Northern Pintail has a nickname that refers to vegetation. What is this plant-based monicker?Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/northern-pintail
Pine Grosbeak: Boreal Finch American Bird Conservancy 2023-01-13 | The Pine Grosbeak is the largest of northern finches, about the size of an American Robin. Less common than other boreal finch species such as the Pine Siskin, it is a striking sight when it appears perched among snow-covered branches. The male Pine Grosbeak has a rose-red body and rump, set off by dark wings with two white wing bars. Females are duller but still colorful, with mustard-yellow and gray in a similar pattern (although some females, as well as young males, show rust-orange instead of yellow). This boreal bird's genus name Pinicola combines the Latin words for "pine tree" and "dwell." Its species name enucleator means "to remove the kernel," acknowledging the Pine Grosbeak's skill at extracting kernels from seeds and fleshy fruits with its stubby, almost parrot-like bill. One of this bird’s behaviors has given the charismatic Pine Grosbeak a rather gloomy but comical nickname. What is it?Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/pine-grosbeak
Scissor-tailed Flycatcher: Sky Dancer American Bird Conservancy 2023-01-13 | The elegant Scissor-tailed Flycatcher is an unforgettable sight, with a forked black-and-white tail that can reach twice the length of its body. While both sexes have long tails, the male's is noticeably longer. This bird’s silvery gray-and-white plumage is accented by washes of salmon pink along its sides and under its wings. Vivid scarlet patches flash in its "wing pits," or axillaries, as it flies. It also has a scarlet crown patch, generally hidden unless the bird erects it when threatened or during territorial interactions with other birds.A member of the same family as the Eastern Kingbird and Great Crested Flycatcher, this bird is generally easy to spot, as it favors out-in-the-open perches such as roadside wires and fence lines.The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher’s showy tail feathers are usually appreciated by people who see them, but how do these lengthy plumes serve the bird?Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/scissor-tailed-flycatcher
Black Tern: Marsh Seabird American Bird Conservancy 2022-12-12 | The dainty Black Tern is barely larger than a Least Tern, which makes it one of the smallest of its kind in North America. In breeding plumage, this small waterbird is an eye-catching combination of deep black and shades of silvery and charcoal gray. Nonbreeding birds are not as distinct, with white underparts and head, gray wings, and a small amount of black on the back of the head. American ornithologist Arthur Cleveland Bent described the graceful flight of the Black Tern as “a wayward, desultory flight, light and buoyant as a butterfly.” The Black Tern's genus name Chlidonias is derived from the Greek word khelidon for swallow.The Black Tern is unique among North American terns in a number of ways. What are they?Read more: abcbirds.org/bird/black-tern
Allens Hummingbird: Early Arrival American Bird Conservancy 2022-12-12 | The Allen's Hummingbird has one of the most restricted ranges of any U.S. hummingbird, breeding solely along the West Coast from southern Oregon down to southern California; many winter in a small area of central Mexico. This small hummingbird is very similar in appearance to the closely related, more widespread Rufous Hummingbird, and the two occasionally hybridize. While the adult male Rufous Hummingbird usually has an all-rufous back and neck, the male Allen’s has a green back and neck. (Note that perhaps up to one in 20 adult male Rufous Hummingbirds also have green backs and are difficult to tell apart from Allen's.) Female and juvenile Allen’s and Rufous Hummingbirds usually cannot be easily distinguished from one another in the field.One way to distinguish an Allen's Hummingbird from a Rufous has to do with timing — but how?Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/allens-hummingbird
Chestnut-collared Longspur: Grassland Spirit American Bird Conservancy 2022-12-06 | The Chestnut-collared Longspur is an iconic species of mixed-grass prairie — the zone of prairie grasslands lying between the tallgrass in the east and shortgrass to the west — and favors sites grazed by bison or disturbed by fire. It is the smallest of North America's four longspur species, a group that includes the Thick-billed Longspur.In breeding plumage, male Chestnut-collared Longspurs sport a striking facial pattern of black, white, and buff framed, or “collared,” by a rich chestnut nape. Females, and males in nonbreeding season, are a much plainer combination of buff and gray with dusky streaks. These markings are the perfect camouflage for a species that seeks shelter amid grasses and forbs. The Chestnut-collared Longspur is named for an interesting characteristic found in many grassland bird species. What is this feature?Read more: abcbirds.org/bird/chestnut-collared-longspur
A Special Thank You Message #GivingTuesday 2022 American Bird Conservancy 2022-11-30 | Thanks to people who care about birds like you, we surpassed our initial #GivingTuesday Match for Birds goal of $100,000 before midnight! Not only that — we met an additional match goal to help us raise more than $175,000 total for this campaign! More than 1,500 other ABC Members and Supporters, helped make bird conservation a top priority for the day.The birds, can't thank you, so we will: "THANK YOU!"Still want to support birds? Please consider chipping in with a monthly gift. Your first 12 monthly gifts will count toward a 1:1 monthly match, and your initial gift counts toward our Because the World Needs Birds Match until Dec. 31!act.abcbirds.org/a/donate-fall-appeal-gt-2022-goal-met?ms=yt
Surprising Ways that Birds Benefit the World | ABC Webinar #BecauseBirds American Bird Conservancy 2022-11-23 | Birds delight us in so many ways, and they are essential to our world.In this webinar, we celebrate birds and the roles they play in our ecosystems, economies, and lives. From pollination to habitat creation, birds are critical to maintaining and supporting the environment (and humans).With the help of ABC's expert staff, we explore some of the ways that birds make our world a better place and why bird conservation is so important.Featuring:- 00:07:05 - Andrés Anchondo, Associate Director of Impact Investing, American Bird Conservancy;- 00:20:38 - Sea McKeon, Director of Marine Program, American Bird Conservancy;- 00:32:10 - EJ Williams, Vice President, Southeast and Atlantic Coast Region, American Bird Conservancy.- 00:41:28 - Q&A
Piping Plover: Bird of Beaches American Bird Conservancy 2022-11-18 | The small, sand-colored Piping Plover is named for its melodic, plaintive whistle. It’s a beautifully camouflaged shorebird of beaches and barrier islands — habitats also favored by species such as the Snowy Plover and Least Tern. A breeding-season adult can be identified by its black-tipped orange bill, yellow-orange legs, black brow band, and incomplete black neck ring (less pronounced in females).Piping Plovers are dependent on safe, clean beaches to thrive, but these same places are popular with people. Protective measures to help increase populations of this species, such as fencing off nesting areas, limiting beach access, are essential for this bird's continued survival.This charming bird is known for a trick it uses to find food. What behavior helps the Piping Plover, and other plovers, scare up a snack? Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/piping-plover
Burrowing Owl: Howdy Neighbor! American Bird Conservancy 2022-11-17 | In some parts of the American West, the long-legged Burrowing Owl is known as the “howdy owl” because it seems to nod in greeting at passers-by. This up-and-down action, however, is really just the owl sizing up potential danger. The Burrowing Owl's species name cunicularia comes from the Latin word for "burrower" or "miner," and true to its name, it nests underground, usually in a burrow taken over from another species sharing its habitat, often a prairie dog, ground squirrel, or tortoise. In areas of soft or sandy soil, this small owl, which is about the size of an American Robin, may dig its own burrow.The Burrowing Owl is unique in a number of other ways. Which characteristics make it a standout?Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/burrowing-owl
Yellow Rail: Marsh Mystery American Bird Conservancy 2022-11-17 | The tiny and enigmatic Yellow Rail is only slightly larger than the Black Rail and is perhaps even more difficult to detect in its marshy haunts. Often described as quail-like in appearance, this stocky rail has dark-brown upperparts striped in pale yellow with fine white crossbars. Its head is buffy, with a dark brown cap and eye patches, and a short yellow bill. White wing patches, only visible in flight, are a distinctive field mark.As with other secretive birds such as the King Rail and Saltmarsh Sparrow, the best way to detect a Yellow Rail's presence is by voice. However, its call closely resembles another animal's that's not even a bird – so how do you tell the difference?Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/yellow-rail
Great Gray Owl: Phantom of the North American Bird Conservancy 2022-11-17 | Among the largest in its family, the Great Gray Owl holds the title as North America’s longest owl species. This majestic bird’s size, coloration, and range have inspired a host of nicknames, including Spectral Owl, Lapland Owl, Spruce Owl, and Sooty Owl.The Great Gray’s lightly mottled plumage, speckled with lighter gray, tan, and white, allows it to blend beautifully into the wooded environments it favors. Its large head lacks ear tufts, and it has an especially large facial disk and piercing yellow eyes.Despite its size, the Great Gray Owl weighs only a few pounds — less than other large owls such as the Snowy and Great Horned. How can this large bird be such a lightweight? Read more: abcbirds.org/bird/great-gray-owl
First Video Ever of the Black-naped Pheasant-Pigeon American Bird Conservancy 2022-11-17 | A team of scientists and conservationists has rediscovered the elusive Black-naped Pheasant-Pigeon, a large, ground-dwelling pigeon that only lives on Fergusson Island, a rugged island in the D'Entrecasteaux Archipelago off of eastern Papua New Guinea. Like other pheasant-pigeons, the Black-naped Pheasant-Pigeon has a broad and laterally compressed tail, which, along with its size, makes it closely resemble a pheasant. The bird has been observed several times over the years by local hunters, but the newly taken photographs and video are the first time the bird has been documented by scientists since 1882, when it was first described. Ornithologists know very little about the species, but believe that the population on Fergusson is very small and decreasing. Read more about this story here: abcbirds.org/news/black-naped-pheasant-pigeon-rediscoveredVideo by Jason Gregg/American Bird Conservancy.
#BecauseBirds: The World Needs Birds American Bird Conservancy 2022-11-15 | #BecauseBirds: Birds delight us in so many ways. And they're essential to the health of our planet.This giving season, American Bird Conservancy is asking our growing community of birders and bird enthusiasts alike to help us meet an extraordinary opportunity to help raise $1 Million for birds through our Because the World Needs Birds 1:1 Match Campaign. Will you give back to birds today?Donate now: act.abcbirds.org/a/donate-fall-appeal-2022?source=FA22_DG_YTAds_DON
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker: No Joke American Bird Conservancy 2022-11-02 | Although the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker is a perennial punchline in jokes about birders and the funny names of their quarry, this interesting, boldly patterned woodpecker is quite real. Despite its name, the yellowish tint on the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker's underside is usually subtle, and certainly not what first catches the eye. More often, what stands out are the vertical white stripe along this woodpecker's folded wing and its black-and-white face. Both male and female have bright red foreheads, but males also have red throats.Sapsuckers are a small, specialized group of woodpeckers found only in North America. The Yellow-bellied is the only one found in eastern North America; the other three species, including the Williamson's Sapsucker, inhabit the West. What makes this small subset of woodpeckers special?Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/yellow-bellied-sapsucker
Black Rail: Marsh Mite American Bird Conservancy 2022-10-25 | The Black Rail is the smallest of its family in North America. It measures just three-quarters of an inch longer than the Saltmarsh Sparrow, with which it shares Atlantic Coast marshland, and weighs about as much as a Semipalmated Sandpiper. This enigmatic bird skulks and scurries behind dense screens of vegetation. It is most often detected during breeding season, when males’ distinctive calls pierce the night.In addition to being “shy as a mouse,” what else does this mysterious bird have in common with tiny rodents? Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/black-rail
Gorgeted Wood-Quail Song American Bird Conservancy 2022-10-24 | The endangered Gorgeted Wood-Quail has a small and fragmented range. According to the ICUN Red List of Threatened Species, the population trend is decreasing due to threats including hunting and logging.Audio accesible at http://www.xeno-canto.org/117261.Audio recorded on Inspección de Policía Virolín Cuchilla de la Vieja (Costilla del Fara), Virolín, Charalá, Santander in Colombia.Audio recorded by Mauricio Álvarez Rebolledo.
Buff-breasted Sandpiper: Shorebird with a Silver Lining American Bird Conservancy 2022-10-21 | The dainty Buff-breasted Sandpiper is most often found far from water, away from the usual haunts of most other shorebirds such as the Sanderling and Piping Plover. During migration and winter, this bird visits short-grass prairies, a habitat favored by another "grasspiper," the Mountain Plover.True to its name, the Buff-breasted Sandpiper is a warm tan all over, with light-edged black feathers on its back, wings, and the top of its head that give it a characteristic scaly appearance. When seen in flight or while displaying, the undersides of this sandpiper's wings flash a striking silvery-white.The Buff-breasted Sandpiper's rather small, rounded head and upright stance give it a look somewhat reminiscent of a plover rather than a sandpiper. But when it comes to breeding, the Buff-breasted is like no other North American shorebird. What makes this little sandpiper such a standout? Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/buff-breasted-sandpiper
On the Frontlines of Extinction: Saving the Rarest Hummingbirds | ABC Webinar American Bird Conservancy 2022-10-17 | Found only in the Americas, hummingbirds surprise and delight us — yet many of these feisty birds are on the verge of disappearing forever, including 39 that are globally threatened. Habitat loss is the biggest threat they face – particularly loss of forests and mountain shrublands.ABC and its partners are determined to prevent these extinctions by restoring and protecting habitat. Through a network of reserves across Latin America and the Caribbean, we're helping to protect 241 hummingbird species across more than 1.1 million acres.This webinar will take you on a trip across our reserve network, with stops in Brazil and Ecuador. You'll learn about some of the rarest hummingbirds and what we're doing do save them (and other species).Speakers will include:- Amy Upgren, Director of Alliance for Zero Extinction and Key Biodiversity Areas Programs, American Bird Conservancy;- Bárbara Cavalcante, Northeast Atlantic Forest Project Coordinator, SAVE Brasil;- José León, Research Coordinator, Fundación Jocotoco.
Western Meadowlark: Neglected No More American Bird Conservancy 2022-10-13 | A common and conspicuous bird across much of North America west of the Mississippi River, the Western Meadowlark was first officially described in 1805 by the famed explorer Meriwether Lewis. However, because this yellow-chested, ground-nesting bird looked so similar to the Eastern Meadowlark, it was not officially recognized as a distinct species until almost 40 years later, when painter and explorer John James Audubon proposed that the Western Meadowlark was a separate species based on its very different vocalizations. Audubon gave the bird its Latin species name neglecta, since it had been overlooked for so long. After decades without notoriety, how did the Western Meadowlark become well-known to millions?Read on to find out more: abcbirds.org/bird/western-meadowlark
Northern Harrier: Marsh Hawk American Bird Conservancy 2022-10-11 | The Northern Harrier, also known as the "Marsh Hawk" for one of its favorite habitats, is a slim raptor with long wings, legs, and tail. The sexes appear different: The male is bluish-gray above with white underparts, a distinctive coloration that earns it the nickname among birders of "Gray Ghost." Meanwhile, female and immature birds are brown with streaked undersides. All have a distinctive white rump, an excellent identifying field mark that can be seen even at a distance.A Northern Harrier's low, buoyant flight style while hunting — somewhat like a Short-eared Owl's — also helps to identify it: While searching for prey, this nimble raptor slowly flaps and glides just above the ground, holding its wings in a shallow V, known as a dihedral.The Northern Harrier has another distinctive and owl-like feature. What is it?Read more: abcbirds.org/bird/northern-harrier
Blue-headed Vireo: Early Bird American Bird Conservancy 2022-10-04 | The colorful Blue-headed Vireo is a standout among more plain-plumaged relatives such as the Red-eyed Vireo. This handsome Neotropical migrant is easy to identify, with a blue-gray head set off by bold white "spectacles," bright yellow flanks, olive-green back, and white wingbars. Both sexes are very similar in appearance. The Blue-headed Vireo's Latin species name solitarius echoes this bird's former common name — the Solitary Vireo — which was used until 1997.How did updated information give this bird a new identity?Read more: abcbirds.org/bird/blue-headed-vireo
Cant-Miss Spots for Fall Migration | ABC Birding Webinar American Bird Conservancy 2022-09-28 | Get insider tips on some of the best places to enjoy birds this fall across the U.S.You'll learn from staff in the Pacific Northwest, Central Texas, Texas Gulf Coast, and the Appalachian Mountains region. We'll go over key habitats and species in each region, favorite spots to visit, when to go, and what ABC is doing to keep migratory birds coming back.Presentations:- 00:00:00 - Introduction by Jordan Rutter, Director of Public Relations- 00:04:38 - Lindsay Adrean, Northwest Program Officer (Fall Birding: Pacific Northwest)- 00:16:24 - Liz Brewer, Appalachian Mountains Joint Venture Outreach Specialist (Fall Birding in Appalachia)- 00:22:39 - Anna Matthews, Oaks and Prairies Joint Venture Coordinator (Texas Migration Birding)- 00:31:59 - Kristen Vale, Texas Coastal Program Coordinator (Birding the Texas Coast)- 00:46:01 - Q&ALearn More:- List of recommended spots: abcbirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Recommended-Spots-for-Fall-Migration.pdf- Resources and chat Q&A: abcbirds.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/FallMigrationResourcesQA.pdf
Mountain Plover: Prairie Ghost American Bird Conservancy 2022-09-16 | Despite its name, the sand-colored Mountain Plover is a species of open plains. It's roughly the size of a Killdeer, but is much more of a habitat specialist than its more familiar relative. And unlike the Snowy Plover, this "shorebird" lives far from water. One of the Mountain Plover's more accurate nicknames is “Prairie Ghost,” inspired by this bird’s habit of freezing in place when threatened, becoming nearly invisible among its dry, grassy surroundings. The Mountain Plover’s preference for open plains puts it into close association with several of the most distinctive mammals of North America. Which species are these?Read more: abcbirds.org/bird/mountain-plover
