The Journal

All Stories

1,084 stories and counting · Page 17

Bird ProfilesBirdwatchingBirdingMigratory BirdsBirds of PreyBirding TipsBird Sounds & CallsPre-historic BirdsBird CultureBird PhotographyRare & Endangered BirdsForest Birds
A Blue Jay anting in a backyard, showing uropygial gland
Bird Profiles

Why Birds Rub Ants on Their Feathers – The Secret of Anting

In the fascinating world of avian behaviour, few practices are as curious and enigmatic as “anting.” This peculiar behaviour involves birds deliberately collecting live ants and rubbing them through their

A small, cup-shaped vireo nest is nestled within the branches of a leafy plant.
Bird Profiles

Why Some Birds Build Dummy Nests to Fool Predators

In the relentless game of survival, birds have evolved numerous strategies to protect their offspring from hungry predators. Among these remarkable adaptations is the fascinating behavior of constructing dummy or

Bohemian Waxwing perched delicately on a thin branch
Bird Profiles

Why the Bohemian Waxwing Has Tips Like Sealing Wax

Among the avian world’s most distinctive features, the Bohemian waxwing’s bright red waxy wingtips stand out as a fascinating evolutionary development. These small, crested birds sport what appear to be

Kirtland's Warbler resting on a pine tree branch
Migratory Birds

Why Migration Is Harder for Smaller Birds

Migration represents one of nature’s most extraordinary phenomena—a seasonal journey undertaken by countless bird species across vast distances in search of favorable conditions. While many birds migrate successfully…

Great Tinamou navigating damp forest floor with scattered leaves
Bird Profiles

What Makes the Great Tinamou Nearly Impossible to See

Deep within the dense undergrowth of Central and South American rainforests lives a bird that has mastered the art of invisibility. The Great Tinamou (Tinamus major) represents one of nature’s

Tree Swallow bird perched on a weathered log
Birdwatching

Why You Should Add a Bird Log to Your Yard

Transforming your yard into a haven for local wildlife doesn’t require expensive installations or elaborate landscaping. Sometimes, the simplest additions make the most significant impact on biodiversity. A bird log—a

An Arctic Tern soars with a red beak and white and grey plumage.
Migratory Birds

The Arctic Tern’s 44,000-Mile Round Trip Explained

In the vast theater of animal migration, one performer stands out for its extraordinary journey—the Arctic tern. This remarkable seabird holds the record for the longest migration of any animal

Bird flying high over a rugged mountain desert
Migratory Birds

Why Some Birds Use Mountain Ranges as Highways

High above the landscapes that humans call home, avian travelers embark on remarkable journeys that span continents and cross formidable geographical barriers. Among the most fascinating aspects of bird migration

A group of Flamingos stand in a shallow, dark body of water.
Bird Profiles

Why Some Birds Have Brightly Colored Legs

Birds are renowned for their vibrant plumage, but many species sport equally striking leg colors that range from brilliant yellows and oranges to vivid blues, pinks, and even multicolored patterns.

A close-up of an Egyptian vulture with white feathers and a sharp beak.
Bird Profiles

How the Egyptian Vulture Uses Tools to Eat Eggs

In the vast animal kingdom, tool use is often associated with the remarkable intelligence of primates and certain bird species like crows. Yet among the lesser-known tool users is the

A majestic Bald Eagle with a white head and yellow beak gazes intently.
Bird Profiles

The Bird That Changes Its Eye Color With Age

The natural world is filled with remarkable adaptations and unique characteristics that help various species thrive in their environments. Among these fascinating biological features is a particularly striking…

A flock of Bar-Tailed Godwits soars across a clear blue sky.
Migratory Birds

The Longest Migration by a Land Bird: Meet the Bar-Tailed Godwit

In the realm of avian wonders, one extraordinary bird stands out for its remarkable feats of endurance and navigation. The Bar-tailed Godwit (Limosa lapponica) holds the world record for the

Photo of an owl clipped inside a personal journal
Birdwatching

How to Make a Birdwatching Journal With Kids

Birdwatching offers children a gateway to the natural world, combining outdoor adventure with scientific observation in a way that’s both educational and deeply engaging. Creating a birdwatching journal transforms casual

A sparrow perches delicately on a snow-covered branch.
Birding

Top 10 Birds to Look for in Your Backyard This Summer

Backyard birdwatching offers a wonderful window into the natural world, bringing color, song, and fascinating behaviors right to your doorstep. As summer unfolds, your garden or yard transforms into a

Blue Tit bird feeding on suet balls in a backyard garden feeder
Birdwatching

The Best Suet Recipes for Winter Bird Feeding

When winter’s chill settles across the landscape, our feathered friends face significant challenges finding adequate nutrition. Natural food sources become scarce as insects hibernate, berries disappear, and snow covers…

A vibrant Eurasian blue tit with a blue cap, yellow body, and white cheeks stands amongst scattered seeds.
Birdwatching

Why Some Birds Prefer Seed While Others Want Insects

The dietary preferences of birds represent one of the most fascinating aspects of avian biology. While walking through a park, you might notice some birds pecking at feeders filled with

Camera placed among vibrant green leaves in a backyard garden
Birding

How to Photograph Backyard Birds Like a Pro

Transforming your backyard into a wildlife photography studio offers an accessible and rewarding way to connect with nature without venturing far from home. Backyard bird photography combines the tranquility of

A beautiful blue peacock displays its vibrant feathers.
Bird Profiles

Why Peacock Feather Myths Might Be the Most Underrated Bird Story

The resplendent peacock has long captivated human imagination with its spectacular display of iridescent feathers that seem almost magical in their beauty. For centuries, these magnificent plumes have inspired myths,