The Real Birding Podcast

In this episode of The Real Birding Podcast, Will and Caleb explore the recent (and pretty mind-blowing) news that scientists have successfully used gene editing technology to bring back the Dire Wolf. It's a major milestone in de-extinction science—but it’s also raising a lot of questions.

Naturally, we start wondering: if they can bring back a giant prehistoric predator, what does that mean for extinct birds? We dive into a few fascinating North American species that could be contenders for de-extinction, including the Passenger Pigeon, Carolina Parakeet, and the elusive Ivory-billed Woodpecker.

It's a conversation that blends cutting-edge science with big ethical questions—and of course, a healthy dose of birding curiosity.

This week, Will and Caleb sit down with Jonathan Macri — better known as Jonny Nature — a beloved voice in the native plant and birding communities. With thousands of followers tuning in to his uplifting and informative content, Jonny is on a mission to heal ecosystems and people, one native plant at a time.

In this conversation, we dive into Jonny's biggest news yet: the purchase of 10 acres in west Michigan, which he plans to restore and protect as a sanctuary for birds, native plants, and the community. We talk about the power of local action, the mental and emotional benefits of reconnecting with nature, and how we can reach young people in a time of deep disconnection from the natural world.

Jonny is a birder, photographer, landscape designer, and — as you'll quickly learn — just an all-around great guy. Whether you're deep into native plants or just bird-curious, this episode has something for you.

🌿 Listen in, get inspired, and remember: healing the land might just be the first step in healing ourselves.

You can find Jonny on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok @JonnyNature

Our Intro Music is by Zach Colburn and Will Keller

In this episode of The Real Birding Podcast, Will and Caleb dive deep into some of the most jaw-dropping bird vagrancy events ever recorded. From rare species showing up in the most unexpected places to birds making incredible journeys that defy logic, we break down the top craziest bird vagrancies in history! 🦅Join us as we explore our theories on how these remarkable birds may have ended up in unfamiliar territories, and just how mind-boggling these moments really are. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a curious newcomer, you won't want to miss this thrilling discussion!🔔 Subscribe for more birding stories, tips, and wild adventures!

In this exciting episode of the Real Birding Podcast, Will and Caleb take you on a journey through the breathtaking Texas Hill Country, a region known for its diverse species and stunning landscapes. They dive into the thrill of spotting elusive rarities like the Black-capped Vireo and Golden-cheeked Warbler, offering tips and insights for finding these iconic birds in the wild.The duo also discusses the growing trend of watching live bird feeder cams, offering a glimpse into the everyday antics of backyard birds in real-time. Plus, Will and Caleb break down some of the most fascinating seabirds—highlighting the bizarre and beautiful species that roam our oceans. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just getting started, this episode is packed with captivating stories, expert tips, and a little bit of birding chaos you won’t want to miss. Tune in for a birding adventure like no other!

In this episode of the Real Birding Podcast, Will and Caleb dive deep into the story behind the famous Big Bear Bald Eagle nest cam. They explore the fascinating journey of this iconic eagle family and how it has captivated bird enthusiasts worldwide. The conversation also covers crucial topics like bald eagle conservation, the importance of protecting these majestic birds, and the role native plants play in supporting healthy bird populations. Along the way, they discuss how spending time in nature can help you reconnect with yourself and foster a deeper understanding of the environment. Tune in for an insightful discussion on conservation, birding, and the beauty of the natural world!🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed the episode!

Links:

Big Bear Bald Eagles Nest Cam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4-L2nfGcuE

Grasshopper sparrow: https://ebird.org/species/graspa

Great-Tailed Grackle: https://ebird.org/species/grtgra

The Nature of Oaks: https://www.google.com/books/edition/The_Nature_of_Oaks/4KEdEAAAQBAJ?hl=en&gbpv=0

Jonny Nature: https://www.instagram.com/jonnynature/?hl=en

In this episode of The Real Birding Podcast, Caleb and Will dive into the amazing technology behind radar tracking migrating birds and explore BirdCast, a website that helps birders predict the best birding days based on radar and weather patterns. They also discuss some of the most bizarre-looking birds on the planet and share the exciting story of a rare bird spotted in North Carolina that drew hundreds of birders to a backyard! Don't miss this fascinating mix of tech, birding, and the thrill of discovery!

Welcome to another exciting episode of The Real Birding Podcast! 🎙️ In today's episode, Will and Caleb dive deep into the fascinating world of birdwatching. They chat about elusive nightjars the rare barnacle goose, and the thrill of spring migration as it approaches. From migration patterns to the unique behaviors of these incredible birds, this conversation is packed with fascinating insights for both seasoned birders and newcomers to the birding world. 🦉🦢Join the conversation, and don't forget to subscribe, like, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode. Let us know your thoughts in the comments below—what birds are you most excited to see this spring? 🔔 Subscribe for more episodes

Red Snowy Owls? Great Gray Owls Landing on Photographers? Join Will and Caleb for a lively discussion on plumage mutations, owl behavior and more!