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đ Bird Merch â Get yourself some bird shirts!
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In Episode 123 Ivan Phillipsen explores the fascinating world of subspeciesâthe diversity that exists within bird species. Learn how these populations arise, why ornithologists sometimes struggle to define them, and what makes the concept so important for both science and conservation.
From the record-breaking Island Thrush, once thought to have more subspecies than any other bird, to chickadees, sparrows, and hawks closer to home, Ivan shares examples that highlight just how complex and surprising intraspecific variation can be. Along the way, he touches on genetics, evolution, and the challenges of naming and classifying birds in a way that truly reflects reality.
Whether youâre a birder, a naturalist, or just curious about how new species begin, this episode offers a look at the âgray zoneâ between populations and speciesâand why it matters for birding, science, and conservation.
Link to this episode on the Science of Birds website
Support the show
 By Ivan Phillipsen
By Ivan Phillipsen4.8
853853 ratings
đ Bird Merch â Get yourself some bird shirts!
~~~
In Episode 123 Ivan Phillipsen explores the fascinating world of subspeciesâthe diversity that exists within bird species. Learn how these populations arise, why ornithologists sometimes struggle to define them, and what makes the concept so important for both science and conservation.
From the record-breaking Island Thrush, once thought to have more subspecies than any other bird, to chickadees, sparrows, and hawks closer to home, Ivan shares examples that highlight just how complex and surprising intraspecific variation can be. Along the way, he touches on genetics, evolution, and the challenges of naming and classifying birds in a way that truly reflects reality.
Whether youâre a birder, a naturalist, or just curious about how new species begin, this episode offers a look at the âgray zoneâ between populations and speciesâand why it matters for birding, science, and conservation.
Link to this episode on the Science of Birds website
Support the show

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