Winging it

In this edition of the BIOL 4242’s “Winging It” podcast, we discuss the biology and conservation of raptors. We discuss steps that people can take in their everyday lives to help protect these important birds, and highlight some of the key issues impacting their ecological success in cities like Charlotte. We also interview Audrey Blackburn, […]

The listener will learn about how important birds are to our world. They will also learn about how important Red-Cockaded Woodpeckers are to the Southeastern USA. The listeners will learn about the importance of birds as keystone species.

Birdwatching is often viewed as a simple backyard hobby, but for many people it has become their livelihood. Tourist interactions, and a lack of education for guides in many areas have had detrimental impacts on native bird species. How does this happen, and why?

Bowerbird courtship is unique and elaborate. Both males and females give a lot of energy to find a successful match, whether this be for construction or selection. The combination of decorations and a bower arch allow for visual acuity of quality that allow for a partnership to have healthier offspring.

Global warming. Its effect on birds can be detrimental, including unprecedented changes in population size, migration patterns, and habitat destruction, resulting from the earth’s rising temperatures. These factors are not all that there is to worry about. Birds are key indicators in providing information on environmental health, and as species of birds begin to disappear, […]