Vermivora warblers, small songbirds, face a big challenge during migration: crossing the Gulf of Mexico. This journey is risky, with many birds not making it. To understand why and how they attempt this flight, researchers tracked 89 warblers from 2013 to 2017 using tiny devices that record light le
In the heart of Iowa, a battle is brewing between farming and nature. Farmers have been draining wetlands to grow crops, but this has left birds that migrate in the spring with fewer places to rest. To tackle this issue, scientists are looking at how man-made wetlands can help. These wetlands are n
The journey of migrating landbirds is anything but easy. These birds have to adjust their flight paths and resting habits to safely cross tough terrains, like the Gulf of Mexico or the Sahara Desert. But there's a new challenge in town, one that humans have created. The Corn Belt in the Midwest Unit
Minamiiwoto Island, part of the Ogasawara Islands in subtropical Japan, is a unique place. It has never been messed up by humans or invaded by foreign animals. This makes it a perfect example of how oceanic islands should work. Seabirds and land crabs play a big role in keeping the island's ecosyste
Chicago's Montrose Beach is buzzing with excitement. A pair of piping plovers, Searocket and Imani, have laid their first egg of the season. This event marks a significant moment in the city's wildlife history. It is the second breeding season for this pair. Their first attempt last year resulte
Hummingbirds are nature's tiny acrobats, and they can add a splash of color and excitement to any backyard. These little birds are always on the lookout for reliable food sources and safe resting spots. By making a few smart choices, you can turn your outdoor space into a hummingbird hotspot.
Pigeons, often kept for fun or competition, can harbor a surprising number of intestinal parasites. These worms, including nematodes and cestodes, pose a threat not just to the birds but also to local wildlife and even humans. To tackle this issue, a close look was taken at the prevalence of these p
White storks face a unique challenge when it comes to managing their body heat. They need to keep their core temperature stable, even when the outside temperature changes a lot. One way they do this is by using their bare body parts as thermal windows. These are areas that can release or absorb heat
The way faces are perceived can shift after gender surgery. This change is often studied by looking at the entire face. However, breaking down the face into three parts might reveal more about how these surgeries work. The upper, middle, and lower sections of the face were examined to see if they af
House finches are known for their vibrant red feathers. These feathers are a result of a specific pigment called 3-hydroxy-echinenone. This pigment is a type of carotenoid. Carotenoids are colorful compounds found in many plants and animals. They are responsible for the bright colors in many bir
