Birding

Hawkwatchers gather along a ridge at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, Pennsylvania, with binoculars, spotting scopes, and seating cushions to take in the raptor migration.
Why You Should Experience a Hawkwatch
October 05, 2021 — Laurie Goodrich has witnessed 35 fall raptor migrations. She shares why hawkwatching still excites her today.
A Red-tailed Hawk silhouette flies high in the sky above a foreground of bare tree branches. The sun glows through the birds' feathers, illuminating its reddish tail.
Look Up! An Introduction to Identifying Raptors in Flight
October 05, 2021 — When hawks and falcons stream across the sky in large numbers, you need a distinct set of birding skills to tell them apart.
Ask Kenn: Do Migrating Birds Take the Same Routes in Spring and Fall?
September 30, 2021 — In this month's column, bird expert Kenn Kaufman explains the phenomenon of "loop migration."
Why the Kirtland’s Warbler Should be Michigan’s State Bird
August 26, 2021 — And while we’re at it, we should change its name to Jack Pine Warbler.
How Birders Are Boosting Their Yard Lists While They Sleep
June 08, 2021 — Using DIY setups and free software, a growing number of community scientists are eavesdropping on nocturnal migrants flying above.
Yellow Warbler. Raymond Hennessy/Alamy
Two Fantastic Warblers Anyone Can Find
May 14, 2021 — Ready to up your warbler game but not sure where to begin? Seek out water to get started with this popular pair.
16 Virtual and In-Person Birding Festivals to Celebrate Spring Migration
April 14, 2021 — Your favorite events might look a little different this year, but you’ll find online opportunities to explore birding hotspots from coast to coast.
Do Yourself a Favor This Spring: Go See the American Woodcock’s ‘Sky Dance’
March 26, 2021 — Timberdoodles have one of the wildest mating rituals among North American birds, and you should definitely check it out. Here’s how.
How You Can Be an Ally Outdoors
March 19, 2021 — It’s one thing to want nature to be safe and accessible for everyone—and another to help make it so. Here are some expert tips to get started.
Our Newest National Park—and West Virginia's First—Is Fantastic for Birding
February 05, 2021 — Located in the southern part of the Mountain State, New River Gorge National Park is a must-visit destination for birders and adventure seekers.