Some birds look more like nightmares than nature’s creations. The marabou stork, with its hunched vulture-like stance and bald, wrinkled head, is one of the ugliest scavengers in the animal kingdom, while the shoebill’s eerie, unblinking stare makes it downright scary. The wide-eyed potoo looks permanently creepy, and the southern screamer is both goofy and […]
Antioquia brushfinch (Atlapetes blancae): From extinction fears to second chance
The Antioquia brushfinch (Atlapetes blancae) is a medium-sized passerine bird endemic to Colombia, inhabiting montane shrubland and forest edges in the northern Andes. Known only from a few collected specimens, it was long considered extinct until its rediscovery in 2018 near San Pedro de los Milagros. Recent surveys estimate a total population of up to […]
Great Indian bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps): Vanishing giant of the grasslands
The great Indian bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps) is one of the heaviest flying birds and a critically endangered species native to the dry grasslands of India and Pakistan. Once widespread, its population has plummeted to fewer than 200 individuals due to habitat loss, hunting, and human encroachment. Conservation efforts are underway, but the species remains on […]
24 of North America’s rarest birds still found in the wild
The akikiki is currently North America’s rarest bird, with fewer than 10 individuals remaining as of 2023. The ivory-billed woodpecker, though likely extinct, has had no confirmed sightings since 1987 and remains unverified as such. Meanwhile, the California condor, once extinct in the wild, has been successfully reintroduced, with 369 individuals recorded in the wild […]
Cone-billed tanager (Conothraupis mesoleuca): Rediscovered rarity at risk
The cone-billed tanager (Conothraupis mesoleuca) is a rare and elusive bird species endemic to Brazil. First described in 1939, it remained undetected for 65 years before its rediscovery in 2003 in Emas National Park, Goiás. Additional populations have since been identified, but its distribution remains highly fragmented. Due to habitat destruction and limited known populations, […]
New bird species discovered in the last 25 years (Ongoing report)
Over the last 25 years, advancements in field research, bioacoustics, and genetic analysis have significantly enhanced our ability to identify and classify new bird species. Since 2000, ornithologists have documented a remarkable number of previously unrecognized species, expanding our understanding of avian biodiversity across diverse ecosystems, from isolated mountain ranges and dense rainforests to understudied […]
18 smartest birds in the world and how their intelligence is measured
Crows, ravens, magpies, grey parrots, and keas are among the world’s smartest birds, demonstrating remarkable problem-solving skills, tool use, complex communication, and even self-awareness. Scientists measure avian intelligence through behavioral experiments, including problem-solving tasks, memory tests, and social interactions.
Crow spiritual meaning and symbolism in world’s folklore
The crow has long been a symbol of intelligence, transformation, and mystery in folklore across various cultures. Often associated with omens, trickery, and messages from the spirit world, the crow’s distinctive appearance and behavior have inspired countless myths that reflect both reverence and superstition. In this article, we will explore the most significant stories and […]
Brazilian merganser (Mergus octosetaceus): Critically endangered diving duck
Birds in Cherokee culture: Symbols, stories, and spirituality
Birds have always held a special place in Cherokee culture, symbolizing various aspects of life, spirituality, and the natural world. Their stories and significance offer a window into the deep connection the Cherokee people have with nature. In this article, we’ll explore the rich tapestry of Cherokee bird mythology, rituals, symbolism, and how traditional knowledge […]