
Sign up to save your podcasts
Or


This week, we’re diving into one of the strangest and most unforgettable birds in the world: the Calfbird. Found in the forests of northern South America, this bizarre species is famous for its bald head, striking blue skin, and an otherworldly call that sounds like a chainsaw. Even wilder? The Calfbird produces that sound using a mechanism similar to how a bullfrog vocalizes—making it a true standout in avian biology and animal sound production.
Join married ornithologists John Bates and Shannon Hackett, along with bird-loving co-hosts RJ Pole and Amanda Pole, as we explore Calfbird behavior, vocalizations, habitat, and why this species continues to fascinate scientists and birders alike.
We also answer a listener question about Snowy Owls, adding even more birdwatching insight to the episode.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder, a science enthusiast, or just love learning about weird and wonderful wildlife, this episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together is packed with memorable bird facts, expert knowledge, and plenty of fun along the way.
🎧 Listen now and discover why the Calfbird might just be one of the most bizarre birds you’ve never heard of—until now.
Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow:
YouTube
TikTok
BlueSky
By John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, Amanda Marquart4.9
3939 ratings
This week, we’re diving into one of the strangest and most unforgettable birds in the world: the Calfbird. Found in the forests of northern South America, this bizarre species is famous for its bald head, striking blue skin, and an otherworldly call that sounds like a chainsaw. Even wilder? The Calfbird produces that sound using a mechanism similar to how a bullfrog vocalizes—making it a true standout in avian biology and animal sound production.
Join married ornithologists John Bates and Shannon Hackett, along with bird-loving co-hosts RJ Pole and Amanda Pole, as we explore Calfbird behavior, vocalizations, habitat, and why this species continues to fascinate scientists and birders alike.
We also answer a listener question about Snowy Owls, adding even more birdwatching insight to the episode.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder, a science enthusiast, or just love learning about weird and wonderful wildlife, this episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together is packed with memorable bird facts, expert knowledge, and plenty of fun along the way.
🎧 Listen now and discover why the Calfbird might just be one of the most bizarre birds you’ve never heard of—until now.
Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow:
YouTube
TikTok
BlueSky

91,163 Listeners

21,932 Listeners

43,854 Listeners

32,246 Listeners

38,789 Listeners

2,516 Listeners

1,253 Listeners

668 Listeners

1,254 Listeners

24,562 Listeners

3,442 Listeners

871 Listeners

1,748 Listeners

172 Listeners

1,647 Listeners