Birding

Old photo of a gull in flight over water.
Remembering "The Bird of the Century," a Half-Century Later
March 03, 2025 — In March of 1975, an extremely rare Ross's Gull was confirmed for the first time in the Lower 48. The sighting and the frenzy that ensued was a watershed moment for a burgeoning birding community.
News
Black and white photo of two woodpeckers, one perched on a tree and the other in flight.
These eBird Checklists Document Some of the Last Sightings of Extinct U.S. Species
February 10, 2025 — As more and more "historical" checklists are added to the platform, birds we've lost now mingle with those still hanging on.
News
A gull flies over blue ocean waves.
These Are the Greatest eBird Checklists for the United States
February 10, 2025 — From mega migrant counts to strange species pairings, prepare to be both inspired and humbled.
News
Illustration of a bird flying through snowflakes and autumn leaves.
Take On a Year of Avian Action With Our 2025 Bird Challenge Calendar
December 12, 2024 — Follow these monthly resolutions to grow as a birder—and a bird advocate—throughout the seasons.
News
Hundreds of crows roosting in trees are silhouetted against a dark blue sky.
Winter Is the Perfect Time to Take Up Crow Watching
December 10, 2024 — 'Tis the season to tune into the drama-filled lives of your local corvids.
News
A Red Crossbill looks down from its perch in a pine tree, holding a seed in its beak.
Fancy Finches? This Extensive New Field Guide Is For You
October 04, 2024 — Co-authored by a finch expert and veteran guide writer, the book covers everything from House Finches to honeycreepers. (Yep, they're finches, too.)
News
A Red-flanked Bluetail perches on a thin branch against a green background.
How Rare Is That Rare Bird?
September 23, 2024 — When you consider all the factors that go into the unlikeliest vagrant sightings, it makes you wonder...
News
A Redpoll perches on a pink plant eating its fuzzy white flowers.
Lumping Redpolls and Splitting Seabirds: This Year's Updates to North American Bird Names
August 07, 2024 — The American Ornithological Society recently announced its checklist changes for 2024—and there’s quite a bit for birders to catch up on.
News
Birders Flock to Great Salt Lake for Annual Birding Festival
June 20, 2024 — How birding festivals bring people together for birds and the habitats on which they depend
Western Water News
A plain brown bird perches on a mossy branch.
Ask Kenn: What's the Secret to Identifying Flycatchers?
March 28, 2024 — Don’t let these difficult birds get you down. Instead, take this sage advice from Audubon Field Editor and bird expert Kenn Kaufman.
News