In this episode of Birds of a Feather Podcast, we revisit one of our favorite past episodes all about the ruby-throated hummingbird—a truly fascinating and fast-flying species known for its shimmering feathers and incredible migration. Join hosts John Bates and Shannon Hackett, along with RJ Pole and Amanda Marquart, as we dive back into the world of this unique hummingbird and explore what makes it such a standout in the bird world.

We also answer a listener mailbag question about mallard ducks, covering interesting facts and behaviors about one of the most familiar waterfowl in North America.

Whether you're a birdwatching beginner or an experienced birder, this episode is packed with fun facts and engaging bird talk.

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This week, we're revisiting a listener favorite all about Blackpoll Warblers—tiny birds with an absolutely epic migration. Whether you're new to warblers or already a seasoned birder, this episode is packed with fascinating facts and fresh insights.

John and Shannon dive into what makes the Blackpoll Warbler’s journey so mind-blowing, and John gives us a broader look at warblers in general—including the time he spotted over 20 species in a single day!

It’s a fun, informative episode that’s sure to spark your curiosity and deepen your appreciation for these remarkable birds.

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This week, we dive into the weird and wonderful world of the Great Potoo—a mysterious nocturnal bird with haunting eyes and an even stranger call. Ever wondered why robin eggs are blue? We’ve got the answer! Plus, we spotlight one of North America’s most stunning songbirds: the Prothonotary Warbler, known for its brilliant yellow plumage and swampy haunts.

If you're a bird lover, nature nerd, or just curious about the strangest birds on Earth, this episode is packed with fun facts, surprising science, and beautiful bird calls.

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In this nature-packed episode, we dive into the fascinating world of Wood Ducks—one of the most beautiful and iconic duck species in North America. Learn about their striking plumage, unique nesting habits, and the incredible moment when day-old ducklings leap from tree cavities to join their mother on the ground.

We also share a recent encounter with a Barred Owl family, and answer a listener’s mailbag question about owl chicks spotted at Walt Disney World.

Hosted by married ornithologists John Bates and Shannon Hackett from the Field Museum, along with RJ and his fiancée Amanda, this episode blends expert knowledge, personal wildlife experiences, and listener Q&A in a fun, informative format.

Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to [email protected]

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In this timely and urgent episode, we explore the devastating impact of recent budget cuts and defunding of the National Science Foundation (NSF) on the U.S. scientific community. Originally planning to discuss Wood Ducks, our conversation quickly shifted to the broader crisis facing science in America today.

Join married ornithologists John and Shannon as they share firsthand insights into how these funding cuts are affecting scientific research, biodiversity studies, and the future of environmental conservation. With Shannon also bringing a Canadian perspective, the discussion highlights both domestic and international implications of these policy decisions.

This is a must-listen episode for anyone passionate about science, environmental policy, and the future of research in North America. Be sure to subscribe and stay tuned for our upcoming episode focused specifically on Wood Ducks.

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This week we are talking about one of the coolest birds in North America: The American Dipper. This is a smaller nondescript bird that has learned and adapted how find food in some of the roughest river water imaginable. It can fly through waterfalls, withstand rushing currents, and to the eye just looks like a little gray songbird. John and Shannon both have a ton of experience with them, so it’s a lot of fun to hear about these amazing birds. 

As always, its our hosts and married couple John Bates and Shannon Hackett who are curators of birds at the Field Museum, along with amateur birders RJ Pole and Amanda Marquart. 

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If you listened to our series on the Feather Thief, or read the book, you are familiar with the Red-ruffed fruitcrow. It was also called the Indian crow in the book. We wanted to follow up the series to talk more in depth about one of the birds that was mentioned so much, and it was pretty fascinating to learn more about this bird that actually has not been researched much. As always, its our hosts and married couple John Bates and Shannon Hackett who are curators of birds at the Field Museum, along with amateur birders RJ Pole and Amanda Marquart. 

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This week we talk about the Spotted Towhee. RJ and Amanda saw them on their trip to Sedona, and thought it would be a fun bird to learn more about. 

Hosted by John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart. 

Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to [email protected]

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In this exciting episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together, we dive into the fascinating world of the Gambel's Quail – a stunning bird spotted by RJ and Amanda during their recent trip to Sedona, Arizona. With John’s Arizona roots, this bird-focused adventure made for the perfect topic, and trust us, it’s one you won’t want to miss!

But that's not all – we also answer an intriguing listener question about owl pellets discovered at a flower farm in Illinois. Tune in for a mix of birdwatching tips, fun facts, and expert insights you can only get from Birds of a Feather Talk Together.

🦅 Featured Birds: Gambel's Quail
🌸 Mailbag Question: Owl Pellets at an Illinois Flower Farm
🎧 Listen now for the perfect blend of nature, curiosity, and fun!

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In this episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together, we dive deep into the world of the Hoatzin, one of the most unique and mysterious birds on the planet! With claws on their wings as chicks, these fascinating creatures might even offer a glimpse into the distant past of dinosaurs.

Join our expert panel, including John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, Amanda Marquart, and special guest Jacob Drucker, as we explore the Hoatzin’s strange biology, incredible behaviors, and its surprising connection to the age of dinosaurs. From their prehistoric traits,  we uncover why the Hoatzin continues to baffle and excite birders around the world.

Get ready for a fun-filled, educational episode packed with fascinating insights about this one-of-a-kind bird. Whether you’re a birdwatching enthusiast, a dinosaur lover, or just a fan of nature’s oddities, this episode is sure to leave you captivated!

Here is a video of Shannon talking about the Hoatzin at the Field Museum: https://youtu.be/i5j2B9sRx-c?si=szsHSEF_6FQ9S0s8

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