Advertise with Googlier.com http://birdnote.org/ en http://birdnote.org/explore/field-notes/2026/11/birdnote-presents-greatest-brown-bag-lunch-history-human-civilization <span>BirdNote Presents: The Greatest Brown Bag Lunch in the History of Human Civilization</span> <div class="narrow--container paragraph paragraph--background--0"><article class="align-center"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/2026%20Year-end%20Event%20Graphic_1.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;2026 Year-end Event Graphic&quot;}" role="button" title="2026 Year-end Event Graphic" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16720-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-NaclNSpwrow" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;2026 Year-end Event Graphic&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-NaclNSpwrow" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/2026%20Year-end%20Event%20Graphic_1.png" width="2880" height="1620" alt="2026 Year-end Event Graphic" loading="lazy"></a></article><p class="text-align-center"><a class="button" href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-greatest-brown-bag-lunch-in-the-history-of-human-civilization-tickets-2000182673219">RSVP NOW</a></p><p class="text-align-center"><strong>BirdNote's </strong><a href="https://app.galabid.com/birdnote-bids/items"><strong>year-end auction</strong></a><strong> is now live! Bid on birding adventures, stunning artwork, book bundles, and even a guitar autographed by Ric Ocasek! </strong><a href="https://app.galabid.com/birdnote-bids/items"><strong>View the auction</strong></a><strong> and bid generously to support BirdNote's storytelling.</strong></p><hr><p>Join BirdNote, author <strong>Helen Macdonald</strong>, comedian <strong>Joe Zimmerman</strong>, and musician <strong>Madison Cunningham</strong> on <strong>Thursday, November 5 at 12pm PT / 3pm ET</strong> for <strong>The Greatest Brown Bag Lunch in the History of Human Civilization</strong>, a one-of-a-kind benefit celebrating birds, storytelling, music and laughter.</p><p>The event will feature acclaimed author Helen Macdonald, whose books about birds, nature and the human experience has captivated readers around the world. Plus, comedian and avid birder Joe Zimmerman will put Helen’s bird knowledge to the test with a lively bird quiz that the audience can play along with, too. Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Madison Cunningham will round out the program with a special musical appearance.</p><p>All proceeds from this event will benefit BirdNote's mission to inspire people to take action for birds everywhere. Come for the conversation, comedy and music, and help support BirdNote’s critical storytelling! Registration is free, but space is limited, so<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-greatest-brown-bag-lunch-in-the-history-of-human-civilization-tickets-2000182673219"> secure your spot today</a>!</p><hr><p>As an independent nonprofit organization, BirdNote relies on listener support to continue producing inspiring stories that make a difference for birds. To support this work, please consider <a href="https://www.birdnote.org/about/great-ways-support-birdnote">giving a gift</a> or choosing the donation-based ticket when signing up for the event. Thank you for your support!</p><hr><p class="lead"><strong><u>About the Guests</u></strong></p><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/1.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Helen Macdonald&quot;}" role="button" title="Helen Macdonald" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16716-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-u4lNhlOrh0o" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Helen Macdonald&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-u4lNhlOrh0o" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/1.png" width="285" height="285" alt="Helen Macdonald" loading="lazy"></a></article><p>Birder, falconer and writer <strong>Helen Macdonald</strong>’s book <em>H is for Hawk</em> won the Samuel Johnson Prize for Non-Fiction, the Costa Book of the Year, and was shortlisted for the National Book Critics Circle Award. They wrote the NYT bestselling essay collection Vesper Flights, a cultural history of falcons, several collections of poetry, and (with Sin Blaché) the sci-fi novel Prophet. They’re are currently working on a book about Midway Atoll, albatrosses, and the end of the world. Formerly a historian of science at the University of Cambridge, they've have written and presented several television documentaries for PBS and the BBC. They currently live in Suffolk, England, with three parrots.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/2.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Joe Zimmerman&quot;}" role="button" title="Joe Zimmerman" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16717-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-eRKnMkcPSKE" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Joe Zimmerman&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-eRKnMkcPSKE" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/2.png" width="285" height="285" alt="Joe Zimmerman" loading="lazy"></a></article><p><strong>Joe Zimmerman</strong> is a comedian and writer in New York City, who grew up in West Virginia and graduated from Davidson College. His work has appeared in The New Yorker and The New York Times, and his latest 1-hour comedy special, “Cult Classic,” was named one of the best of the year by L.A.’s The Comedy Bureau. His TV appearances include The Tonight Show, The Late Late Show, Conan, and Comedy Central. He has written for awards shows, TV, and political speeches, and he’s currently writing a humorous novel from the perspective of a bird-obsessed unreliable narrator.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/3.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Madison Cunningham&quot;}" role="button" title="Madison Cunningham" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16718-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-mexb6DQuL1M" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Madison Cunningham&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-mexb6DQuL1M" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/3.png" width="285" height="285" alt="Madison Cunningham" loading="lazy"></a></article><p>Grammy-award winner <strong>Madison Cunningham</strong> is an American singer, songwriter and guitarist. Rolling Stone described her music as "a new spin on West Coast folk-rock, with classical tendencies, electric guitars, jazz-school chord changes and alt-rock strut all living under the same roof. GRAMMY award. She returns with Ace, her third record for Verve Forecast.</p></div><span><span>BibiBP</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-11-05T15:00:00-08:00" title="Thursday, November 5, 2026 - 15:00">Thu, 11/05/2026 - 15:00</time> </span> <a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/Helen%20Macdonald.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Helen Macdonald&quot;}" role="button" title="© " data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-field_notes-18232-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-iZyxHBDzkkw" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Helen Macdonald&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-iZyxHBDzkkw" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/styles/show_banner/public/Helen%20Macdonald.png?h=55541bb6&amp;itok=D-grdljp" width="628" height="460" alt="Helen Macdonald" loading="lazy"></a> 0 <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--multimedia paragraph--view-mode--default paragraph--id--14045 paragraph--background-image paragraph--background--0 paragraph-- clearfix"><div class="block-container"></div></div> Thu, 05 Nov 2026 23:00:00 +0000 BibiBP 18232 at http://birdnote.org http://birdnote.org/explore/field-notes/2026/10/bid-birdnotes-year-end-auction <span>Bid in BirdNote's Year-end Auction!</span> <div class="narrow--container paragraph paragraph--background--0"><article class="align-center"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-10/2026%20Year-end%20Auction.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;2026 Year-end Auction Graphic&quot;}" role="button" title="2026 Year-end Auction Graphic" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16740-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-vRWq0GBMAa0" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;2026 Year-end Auction Graphic&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-vRWq0GBMAa0" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-10/2026%20Year-end%20Auction.png" width="2000" height="817" alt="2026 Year-end Auction Graphic" loading="lazy"></a></article><p class="text-align-center"><a class="button" href="https://app.galabid.com/birdnote-bids/items" target="_blank">BID NOW</a></p><p><strong>Your next adventure starts with a bid!</strong></p><p>BirdNote's year-end auction features perfect items and experiences for music lovers, birders, adventurers and more, including a guitar signed by a rock legend, a writing workshop with author Helen Macdonald and a safari in South Africa. Plus, every bid helps support BirdNote’s mission to inspire people everywhere to care about birds and take action to protect them. <a href="https://app.galabid.com/birdnote-bids/items">Browse the auction and place your bids today</a>!&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Explore these standout items and bid on something special while supporting the stories you love:</strong><br>&nbsp;</p><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-10/Guitar%20%281%29.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Guitar&quot;}" role="button" title="Guitar" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16742-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-ETLgbsrcOZM" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Guitar&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-ETLgbsrcOZM" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-10/Guitar%20%281%29.png" width="250" height="250" alt="Guitar" loading="lazy"></a></article><p><a href="https://app.galabid.com/birdnote-bids/items/cf084da0-be25-4342-aa58-828f51ddbad3?backPath=%2Fbirdnote-bids%2Fitems&amp;from=cf084da0-be25-4342-aa58-828f51ddbad3"><strong>Gibson Electric Guitar Autographed by Ric Ocasek (of The Cars)</strong></a><br>&nbsp;The Gibson Custom Les Paul SG Custom Reissue flawlessly brings back one of Gibson's most revered solidbody models from their golden age. It replicates the original's sound, aesthetics and tactile experience with an unwavering commitment to quality. The solid mahogany body offers a sonorous resonance, delivering tones rich in clarity and depth. Playing is a breeze thanks to the guitar's set mahogany neck and smooth 12" ebony fingerboard.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-10/Tony%20Angell.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Tony Angell Artwork&quot;}" role="button" title="Tony Angell Artwork" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16743-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-oDvFvdjC-18" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Tony Angell Artwork&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-oDvFvdjC-18" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-10/Tony%20Angell.png" width="250" height="250" alt="Tony Angell Artwork" loading="lazy"></a></article><p><a href="https://app.galabid.com/birdnote-bids/items/a831504f-3def-432f-a094-de528370192e?backPath=%2Fbirdnote-bids%2Fitems&amp;from=a831504f-3def-432f-a094-de528370192e"><strong>Original Hand-Colored Lithograph "Determined Flight" by Tony Angell</strong></a></p><p>Bring home a beautiful original by renowned wildlife artist Tony Angell, featuring two Caspian terns in a hand-colored lithograph enhanced with pastel. This special piece is an opportunity to add a distinctive work of art to your collection while making a meaningful investment in BirdNote’s mission. Bid generously to make it yours!</p><p><br>&nbsp;</p><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-10/Helen%20Macdonald.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Helen Macdonald&quot;}" role="button" title="Helen Macdonald" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16744-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-AiyY5sjW5eE" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Helen Macdonald&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-AiyY5sjW5eE" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-10/Helen%20Macdonald.png" width="250" height="250" alt="Helen Macdonald" loading="lazy"></a></article><p><a href="https://app.galabid.com/birdnote-bids/items/fe17a863-c548-4418-a10a-91e99366648c?backPath=%2Fbirdnote-bids%2Fitems&amp;from=fe17a863-c548-4418-a10a-91e99366648c"><strong>Individual Online Workshop with author Helen Macdonald</strong></a></p><p>Enjoy a rare opportunity to spend an hour online with acclaimed writer Helen Macdonald, whose extraordinary work explores the connections between people, birds, and the natural world.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-10/Safari.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Safari&quot;}" role="button" title="Safari" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16745-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-TwkiZAgJu_0" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Safari&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-TwkiZAgJu_0" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-10/Safari.png" width="250" height="250" alt="Safari" loading="lazy"></a></article><p><a href="https://app.galabid.com/birdnote-bids/items/2099cebc-42aa-420d-a4be-4aa06f52a6de?backPath=%2Fbirdnote-bids%2Fitems&amp;from=2099cebc-42aa-420d-a4be-4aa06f52a6de"><strong>6-Night Photo Safari at Zulu Nyala Lodge in South Africa</strong></a></p><p>Experience the magic of Africa! Zulu Nyala is a privately-owned safari game reserve, located in Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal - one of the largest and most diverse conservation areas in Southern Africa.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-10/Road%20Scholar.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Road Scholar Trip&quot;}" role="button" title="Road Scholar Trip" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16746-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-305gQJ1bfqs" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Road Scholar Trip&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-305gQJ1bfqs" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-10/Road%20Scholar.png" width="250" height="250" alt="Road Scholar Trip" loading="lazy"></a></article><p><a href="https://app.galabid.com/birdnote-bids/items/88a6d7fd-5961-42e6-ab8e-90082be191a0?backPath=%2Fbirdnote-bids%2Fitems&amp;from=88a6d7fd-5961-42e6-ab8e-90082be191a0"><strong>Road Scholar's Cave Creek Canyon Birding At Portal&nbsp;</strong></a></p><p>Program for two on Road Scholar's Cave Creek Canyon Birding At Portal. One of the premier birding areas of the U.S., Cave Creek Canyon’s proximity to Mexico and unique highland habitat produce a rich mix of species. The Chiricahua Mountains provide a migration corridor above the surrounding desert and rise through seven life zones. Providing a wide range of ecosystems, it is one of only two sites in the U.S. where the Elegant Trogon nests and is home to 16 varieties of hummingbirds. Join a birding professional for daily field trips in our exploration of the mountains.</p><hr><p>Plus, join us on <strong>Thursday, November 5, at 12pm PT / 3pm ET</strong> for The Greatest Brown Bag Lunch in the History of Human Civilization, a one-of-a-kind virtual benefit featuring author Helen Macdonald, comedian Joe Zimmerman, and Grammy Award-winning musician Madison Cunningham. Enjoy conversation, comedy, and music in celebration of birds. Registration is free, but space is limited, so <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-greatest-brown-bag-lunch-in-the-history-of-human-civilization-tickets-2000182673219">secure your spot today</a>!</p></div><span><span>BibiBP</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-10-19T11:39:25-07:00" title="Monday, October 19, 2026 - 11:39">Mon, 10/19/2026 - 11:39</time> </span> <a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/Mabel%20Sketch.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Mabel by Helen Macdonald&quot;}" role="button" title="© " data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-field_notes-18253-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-_UllBkvge2c" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Mabel by Helen Macdonald&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-_UllBkvge2c" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/styles/show_banner/public/Mabel%20Sketch.png?h=55541bb6&amp;itok=fANDviZW" width="628" height="460" alt="Mabel by Helen Macdonald" loading="lazy"></a> 0 <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--multimedia paragraph--view-mode--default paragraph--id--14118 paragraph--background-image paragraph--background--0 paragraph-- clearfix"><div class="block-container"></div></div> Mon, 19 Oct 2026 18:39:25 +0000 BibiBP 18253 at http://birdnote.org http://birdnote.org/explore/field-notes/2026/10/air-and-air-insanely-fun-benefit-birdnote-and-khol <span>On the Air and In the Air: An Insanely Fun Benefit for BirdNote and KHOL</span> <div class="narrow--container paragraph paragraph--background--0"><article class="align-center"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/1880x940%20%5Beventbrite%5D_On%20The%20Air%20and%20In%20The%20Air.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;On the Air and In the Air&quot;}" role="button" title="On the Air and In the Air" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16681-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-1QSNUlB5ZDo" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;On the Air and In the Air&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-1QSNUlB5ZDo" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/1880x940%20%5Beventbrite%5D_On%20The%20Air%20and%20In%20The%20Air.png" width="1880" height="940" alt="On the Air and In the Air" loading="lazy"></a></article><p class="text-align-center"><a class="button" href="https://www.jhcenterforthearts.org/event/on-the-air-and-in-the-air/">GET YOUR TICKETS</a></p><p><strong>The On the Air and In the Air Silent Auction is now open, and runs through October 1. </strong><a href="https://galabid.com/birdnote-khol-auctio"><strong>Visit this link</strong></a><strong> to bid generously to support BirdNote and KHOL now!</strong></p><hr><p>Join us for an unforgettable evening of storytelling, science and conservation featuring two of the world’s most celebrated voices on birds and the natural world. Acclaimed birding advocate and television host Christian Cooper will be in conversation with bestselling author Jennifer Ackerman for a wide-ranging discussion about the wonder, intelligence and importance of birds in our lives. This event is as much for the avid birder as the simply curious!</p><p>Proceeds support KHOL’s mission to provide independent journalism, community storytelling and public service programming throughout Jackson Hole, as well as BirdNote’s work to connect people with the beauty and importance of birds through science, storytelling and conservation.</p><p><strong>VIP tickets include:</strong></p><ul><li data-list-item-id="e290ba20d9b867e353f565001c79db857">Meet and greet reception with drinks and hors d’oeuvres, with special guests Christian Cooper and Jennifer Ackerman, as well as the BirdNote and KHOL teams</li><li data-list-item-id="e483da69e8a05f979a0e8a5a0ad735d65">Signed copy of Christian Cooper’s book, “Better Living through Birding”</li><li data-list-item-id="e8d80407da8bcee274e89ff6877144a6c">Signed copy of Jennifer Ackerman’s book, “What an Owl Knows”</li><li data-list-item-id="ea4a8c336bd9c7cb20e00bd63b25afe5a">Copy of “BirdNote: 100 Illustrated Bird Stories to Inspire Your Bird Watching”</li><li data-list-item-id="e9da90b2566c7ddf99381c039eccfd10c">Reserved seating for the main event</li></ul><p><a href="https://www.jhcenterforthearts.org/event/on-the-air-and-in-the-air/">Tickets can be purchased directly from the Jackson Hole Center for the Arts</a>.</p><hr><p><strong><u>About the Guests</u></strong></p><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/Christian%20Cooper.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Christian Cooper&quot;}" role="button" title="Christian Cooper" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16683-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-queeWX75wCM" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Christian Cooper&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-queeWX75wCM" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/Christian%20Cooper.png" width="285" height="285" alt="Christian Cooper" loading="lazy"></a></article><p><strong>Christian Cooper</strong> is the Emmy Award-winning host of the National Geographic series Extraordinary Birder and the author of the NY Times Bestseller Better Living Through Birding. He served as president of the Harvard Ornithological Club in his college days and advocates for greater, safer access to green spaces for all, with a focus on outreach to youth in underserved communities. His other work includes the children’s book The Urban Owls, published by Little Brown.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/Jennifer%20Ackerman.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Jennifer Ackerman&quot;}" role="button" title="Jennifer Ackerman" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16684-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-XPyX-Q8Aglg" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Jennifer Ackerman&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-XPyX-Q8Aglg" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/Jennifer%20Ackerman.png" width="285" height="285" alt="Jennifer Ackerman" loading="lazy"></a></article><p><strong>Jennifer Ackerman</strong> is an award-winning author who has spent more than 30 years writing about science, nature, and birds. A 2024 Guggenheim Fellow, she is known for blending scientific insight with compelling storytelling. Her latest book, What an Owl Knows, became an instant New York Times bestseller, and she also authored the bestselling books The Bird Way and The Genius of Birds.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong><u>About the Moderator</u></strong></p><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/Jonese-Franklin-285.jpg" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Jonese Franklin&quot;}" role="button" title="Jonese Franklin" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16682-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-A_bHkkNKMu4" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Jonese Franklin&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-A_bHkkNKMu4" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/Jonese-Franklin-285.jpg" width="220" height="220" alt="Jonese Franklin" loading="lazy"></a></article><p><strong>Jonese Franklin</strong> oversees all BirdNote broadcast and podcast productions, including BirdNote Daily, Bring Birds Back, and special series. Jonese has two decades of experience in public media – reporting, editing and producing stories. Most recently, she served as Program Director and All Things Considered host at 89.3 WFPL News in Louisville, Ky. While at WFPL she also co-created and produced two limited-run podcasts as well as a daily news podcast. Jonese holds a B.A. in Electronic Media from Morehead State University, in Morehead, Ky. She’s new to the birding world and excited about joining the community. She’s a big believer in the power of animals and nature to make us feel more grounded to our homes, and connected to each other. Jonese lives in Louisville with her wife, Laura, and their four dogs: Wendell, Lamar, Barkley, and Radar.</p><hr><h4 class="text-align-center">Thank you to our sponsors!</h4><article class="align-center"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/Oct%201%20Sponsors.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;On the Air and In the Air Sponsors&quot;}" role="button" title="On the Air and In the Air Sponsors" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16730-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-RG0QqRmltMw" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;On the Air and In the Air Sponsors&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-RG0QqRmltMw" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/Oct%201%20Sponsors.png" width="2880" height="1125" alt="On the Air and In the Air Sponsors" loading="lazy"></a></article></div><span><span>BibiBP</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-10-01T17:27:34-07:00" title="Thursday, October 1, 2026 - 17:27">Thu, 10/01/2026 - 17:27</time> </span> <a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/300x250_On%20The%20Air%20and%20In%20The%20Air%20%28200%20x%20200%20px%29.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;On the Air and In the Air&quot;}" role="button" title="© " data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-field_notes-18195-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-ERyW1fnWSYE" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;On the Air and In the Air&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-ERyW1fnWSYE" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/styles/show_banner/public/300x250_On%20The%20Air%20and%20In%20The%20Air%20%28200%20x%20200%20px%29.png?h=55541bb6&amp;itok=G53UhEmc" width="628" height="460" alt="On the Air and In the Air" loading="lazy"></a> 0 Fri, 02 Oct 2026 00:27:34 +0000 BibiBP 18195 at http://birdnote.org http://birdnote.org/explore/field-notes/2026/09/meet-birdnote-team-zahiyah-frazier <span>Meet the BirdNote Team: Zahiyah Frazier</span> <div class="narrow--container paragraph paragraph--background--0"><article><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/IMG_1917.jpg" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Zahiyah Frazier&quot;}" role="button" title="© " data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16732-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-hoJLFfOWw-Y" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Zahiyah Frazier&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-hoJLFfOWw-Y" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/styles/show_photo_square_1400/public/2026-09/IMG_1917.jpg?h=2b533de8&amp;itok=2I2YlFUN" width="1400" height="1400" alt="Zahiyah Frazier" loading="lazy"></a></article><p><br>Zahiyah “Zee” Frazier serves as Development Coordinator for BirdNote. Prior to joining BirdNote she served as a Philanthropy Coordinator for MedStar Health, in Washington, D.C. Zee brings experience in stewardship strategies, philanthropy operations, and donor relations and engagement. She holds a B.A. in Human Relations from Trinity Washington University, an Associates of Science in Pharmacy from the ASA Institute, in New York City and a certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion - Leadership from Cornell University. She is also currently working towards her Masters in Organizational Leadership through Liberty University. In her free time, Zee participates in many community service initiatives for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the D.C. area, and serves as a meditation and wellness coach for the STRIVE program at Central Piedmont Community College in Charlotte, N.C.</p><p><strong>We sat down with Zee to get to know her and her work here at BirdNote!&nbsp;</strong></p><h3>Q: How did you end up at BirdNote? What was your journey to here?</h3><p><br>I was in search of a role where I could combine the experiences that I've acquired over the years with something I really enjoy.</p><h3><br>Q: What does a day in your life at BirdNote look like?</h3><p><br>As a coordinator, I dive into the the data around our revenue as well as serve as point of contact for donor relations. My day consists of maintaining our databases used for revenue, reconciling funds on a daily basis, performing donor outreach and correspondences and operational task mapping when needed.</p><h3><br>Q: What was your Spark Bird?</h3><p><br>Honestly, I don't have a "spark bird." I enjoy bird watching because I simply enjoy nature. To me, birds are one of many beautiful parts of the world's ecosystem and are a reminder of my deep connection to the earth.</p><h3><br>Q: What is your favorite BirdNote episode?</h3><p><br>I enjoy the <em>Bring Birds Back</em> podcast. Episodes that are my favorite are: "Building Community for BIPOC Birders" and "Let's All Go To Gullah Geechee Sea Islands with Isaiah Scott."</p><h3><br>Q: What would be your bird-themed super power?</h3><p><br>The Bar-Tailed Godwit for sure. Their ability to travel for long distances without food or rest would be an elite superpower.</p></div><span><span>Daniellaga</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-09-23T12:45:36-07:00" title="Wednesday, September 23, 2026 - 12:45">Wed, 09/23/2026 - 12:45</time> </span> 0 <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--multimedia paragraph--view-mode--default paragraph--id--14088 paragraph--background-image paragraph--background--0 paragraph-- clearfix"><div class="block-container"></div></div> Wed, 23 Sep 2026 19:45:36 +0000 Daniellaga 18248 at http://birdnote.org http://birdnote.org/explore/field-notes/2026/08/remembering-mary-mccann-beloved-voice-birdnote <span>Remembering Mary McCann, a Beloved Voice of BirdNote</span> <div class="narrow--container paragraph paragraph--background--0"><article class="align-center"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-08/Mary%20McCann%20-%20In%20Studio.jpeg" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Mary McCann&quot;}" role="button" title="Mary McCann" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16705-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-cUeEngQoOK8" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Mary McCann&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-cUeEngQoOK8" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-08/Mary%20McCann%20-%20In%20Studio.jpeg" width="564" height="407" alt="Mary McCann" loading="lazy"></a></article><p><strong>We are deeply saddened by the passing of Mary McCann, a longtime and beloved narrator for BirdNote.</strong></p><p>For many BirdNote listeners, Mary’s voice will be instantly familiar. Her voice encapsulated the warmth and joy that BirdNote is known for as she brought hundreds of stories about birds and the natural world to life.</p><p>BirdNote’s founder, Chris Peterson, remembered both Mary’s sensitivity as a narrator and the wonderful determination she brought to the role. “Mary was a wonderful, sensitive narrator for BirdNote. She once told me, when the auditions were open for a new BirdNote narrator, that she put the little cut-out of BirdNote’s mascot ‘Marty’ on her refrigerator and said out loud to him, ‘Marty, you’re mine! I’m going to win this job.’ I loved working with Mary.”</p><p>Over the years, Mary narrated stories that introduced listeners to the beauty and wonder of birds; from <a href="https://www.birdnote.org/podcasts/birdnote-daily/demise-passenger-pigeon">Passenger Pigeons</a> to <a href="https://www.birdnote.org/podcasts/birdnote-daily/australias-rainforest-birds">Australia’s rainforest birds</a>, shorebirds, migrating birds and more. In total, Mary voiced <strong>720 episodes of </strong><em><strong>BirdNote Daily</strong></em>, and her voice grew to become part of BirdNote’s sound.</p><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-08/Mary%20McCann_1.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Mary McCann&quot;}" role="button" title="Mary McCann" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16708-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-LHhob9QM_LA" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Mary McCann&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-LHhob9QM_LA" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-08/Mary%20McCann_1.png" width="320" height="240" alt="Mary McCann" loading="lazy"></a></article><p>Former BirdNote Writer and Associate Producer, Ellen Blackstone, fondly remembers the joy Mary brought into the studio and the passion she brought to the stories she told. “Loved recording BirdNote stories with Mary! Working with her in the studio was a joy — (she was) such a team player. She was fun and funny, also thoughtful and passionate about so many things. Like chickadees! I'll miss her.”</p><p>BirdNote narrator Michael Stein reflects on Mary’s unforgettable voice, remarkable radio career, and the joy of working alongside her. “From her Rock-n-Roll days on Phoenix radio (as the legendary rocker ‘Bone Mama’), through wonderful episodes of BirdNote and dreamy Sunday afternoons on 88.5, KNKX, it's always been a pleasure to hear, and get to work alongside, the one and only Mary McCann. She has always been the Real Thing.”</p><p>For anyone who would like to spend a few minutes with Mary’s voice, we especially recommend a recently aired <em>BirdNote Daily</em> episode, “<a href="https://www.birdnote.org/podcasts/birdnote-daily/ballet-grebes">The Ballet of the Grebes</a>.” Set to music from Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, the story follows the graceful courtship display of grebes. Mary’s narration is a fitting example of the deep appreciation that she held for the artistry and emotion of the natural world, which was clear in her work.</p><article class="align-right"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-08/Mary%20McCann%20-%202.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Mary McCann&quot;}" role="button" title="Mary McCann" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16709-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-U4Y1lrzPjnc" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Mary McCann&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-U4Y1lrzPjnc" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-08/Mary%20McCann%20-%202.png" width="400" height="300" alt="Mary McCann" loading="lazy"></a></article><p>Former BirdNote Senior Producer John Kessler came to know that special quality from the very beginning.&nbsp; John led the search that ultimately brought Mary to BirdNote. He shared, "I feel very lucky that Mary was part of my life for many years, in our work with BirdNote and at KNKX. In 2008, when I was in charge of BirdNote's search for a new narrator, we received about 80 applications, including one from Mary. Most of the applicants were very capable and professional. But we were looking for something special, and we found it with Mary. I heard a voice that was inviting, and could convey emotion, a voice with a poet's soul and an easy way with a chuckle. That's also the kind of person she was: goofy, upbeat, always with a kind word and always ready to laugh. I envied her ability to be uninhibited, both with her voice and the way she led her life. It's a small consolation, but thanks to BirdNote, her voice and spirit will live on."</p><p>We feel immensely fortunate that Mary chose to join the team at BirdNote. Her voice will continue to reach listeners for years, inviting them to stop for a moment, listen closely and discover the wonderful world of birds. Not only will we remember Mary with tremendous gratitude and affection, we will be honoring her wishes to continue sharing her voiced episodes of <em>BirdNote Daily</em> for radio broadcast and podcast.</p><p>We extend our deepest condolences to Mary’s family, friends and all those who knew and loved her. You can read more about her life and legacy <a href="https://www.forevermissed.com/mary-catherine-mccann/lifestory">here</a>.</p></div><span><span>BibiBP</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-08-12T07:54:07-07:00" title="Wednesday, August 12, 2026 - 07:54">Wed, 08/12/2026 - 07:54</time> </span> <a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/Mary%20McCann.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Mary McCann&quot;}" role="button" title="© " data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-field_notes-18212-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-cFo3ccRSfTw" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Mary McCann&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-cFo3ccRSfTw" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/styles/show_banner/public/Mary%20McCann.png?h=55541bb6&amp;itok=21DkrWcu" width="628" height="460" alt="Mary McCann" loading="lazy"></a> 0 <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--multimedia paragraph--view-mode--default paragraph--id--14010 paragraph--background-image paragraph--background--0 paragraph-- clearfix"><div class="block-container"></div></div> Wed, 12 Aug 2026 14:54:07 +0000 BibiBP 18212 at http://birdnote.org http://birdnote.org/explore/field-notes/2026/08/meet-birdnote-team-jazzi-johnson <span>Meet the BirdNote Team: Jazzi Johnson</span> <div class="narrow--container paragraph paragraph--background--0"><article class="align-center"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/IMG_5635.jpg" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Jazzi Johnson&quot;}" role="button" title="Jazzi Johnson" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16726-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-Vrj0V9KJWPU" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Jazzi Johnson&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-Vrj0V9KJWPU" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/IMG_5635.jpg" width="3072" height="2795" alt="Jazzi Johnson" loading="lazy"></a></article><p>Jasmine "Jazzi" Johnson develops and oversees the editorial voice and production of longform podcasts and special projects for BirdNote. She is a multi-disciplinary creative who began her career in journalism as a writer, editor and manager with networks such as BET, Oxygen TV, Blavity, The Grio, Genius, Yahoo! News, and more. Following a pivot, Jazzi continues to further her career in storytelling with audio and scriptwriting, combining her love for writing, research, management and production. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Arts and Journalism from The New School’s Eugene Lang College in New York City. Currently residing in Los Angeles, she indulges in all of her favorite pastimes like hiking, yoga, songwriting - and now, birding!</p><p><strong>We sat down with Jazzi to get to know her and her work here at BirdNote!&nbsp;</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Q: How did you end up at BirdNote? What was your journey to here?</h3><p dir="ltr">A few years ago, I was looking to pivot from hard news/digital journalism to something that really made more use of my creativity as a writer, my love for audio (and journalism), and overall could make me feel like I was bringing more light into the world. I had just spent two years as an Editorial Manager at Yahoo! News during the height of COVID in Los Angeles – and I was looking for a mental break. BirdNote has really provided me with that and so much more.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Q: What does a day in your life at BirdNote look like?</h3><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/Jazzi_4.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Jazzi Johnson&quot;}" role="button" title="Jazzi Johnson" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16727-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-vPPuoEpKJq0" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Jazzi Johnson&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-vPPuoEpKJq0" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/Jazzi_4.png" width="312" height="417" alt="Jazzi Johnson" loading="lazy"></a></article><p dir="ltr">As a manager and producer, there’s honestly no day that looks the same, but there are a few tasks during production season that I check on nearly everyday: the amount of interviews banked, scheduled and pending; that everyone on the team is clear about their tasks for the day or the week; a clear view regarding deadlines and timelines for each episode, sponsor, deliverables, etc.; the progress of each script (which typically are always in different stages) and what needs to be done to get them all to the finish line; and of course that I don’t forget to eat and drink water before the end of the day (bad habit that I’ve gotten much better at achieving since working here) - lol!&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>Q: What was your Spark Bird?</h3><article class="align-center"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/White%20Peacock.jpg" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;White Peacock&quot;}" role="button" title="White Peacock" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16722-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-xcgs57yyLNM" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;White Peacock&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-xcgs57yyLNM" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/White%20Peacock.jpg" width="800" height="536" alt="White Peacock" loading="lazy"></a></article><p dir="ltr">The very same week that I was interviewed for BirdNote in 2022, I randomly discovered an all-white peacock online named after Michael Jackson (hey, I didn’t name it!). MJ is also one of my favorite artists, so it really caught my attention. And the video wasn’t even popular, it had like 300 views or less at the time and I just thought it was the coolest bird I had ever seen. Anywho, it sparked my interest and I ended up deep-diving into the history of the bird when I realized that Los Angeles, where I live, is actually quite the hub for peacocks. They were imported here from India and Sri Lanka around the 1870s – which also meant that&nbsp; I could actually see one in person – and did.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Q: What is your favorite BirdNote episode?</h3><p dir="ltr"><iframe height="200px" width="100%" frameborder="no" scrolling="no" seamless src="https://player.simplecast.com/5d705270-9c60-46b6-8cef-e6c54196ae0e?dark=false"></iframe> Truthfully, it’s hard to choose, but “<a href="https://www.birdnote.org/podcasts/bring-birds-back/noise-report">The Noise Report</a>,” “<a href="https://www.birdnote.org/podcasts/bring-birds-back/radical-joy-dr-j-drew-lanham">Radical Joy with Dr. J. Drew Lanham</a>,” “<a href="https://www.birdnote.org/podcasts/bring-birds-back/forgotten-flock-female-birds">The Forgotten Flock: Female Birds</a>” and “<a href="https://www.birdnote.org/podcasts/bring-birds-back/celluloid-birding-christian-cooper">Celluloid Birding with Christian Cooper</a>” are among my favorite&nbsp;<em>Bring Birds Back</em> episodes.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Q: What would be your bird-themed super power?</h3><p dir="ltr">Similar to the Northern Mockingbird’s ability to mimic the sound and song of so many different birds, in human form, I’d compare that to being able to quickly adapt and learn other people’s languages. So my bird-themed super power would be having the ability to speak any language I hear.</p><p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p><hr><p>^{White Peacock © Jamie Sanford}</p></div><span><span>Daniellaga</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-08-02T08:00:00-07:00" title="Sunday, August 2, 2026 - 08:00">Sun, 08/02/2026 - 08:00</time> </span> <a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/Jazzi-Johnson-285%20%281%29.jpg" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Jazzi Johnson&quot;}" role="button" title="© " data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-field_notes-18233-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-0LJZ0Df7QWg" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Jazzi Johnson&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-0LJZ0Df7QWg" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/styles/show_banner/public/Jazzi-Johnson-285%20%281%29.jpg?h=446dc3a2&amp;itok=HI91eiAH" width="628" height="460" alt="Jazzi Johnson" loading="lazy"></a> 0 <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--multimedia paragraph--view-mode--default paragraph--id--14046 paragraph--background-image paragraph--background--0 paragraph-- clearfix"><div class="block-container"></div></div> Sun, 02 Aug 2026 15:00:00 +0000 Daniellaga 18233 at http://birdnote.org http://birdnote.org/explore/field-notes/2026/08/meet-birdnote-team-ariana-remmel <span>Meet the BirdNote Team: Ariana Remmel</span> <div class="narrow--container paragraph paragraph--background--0"><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/IMG_3304.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Ariana Remmel&quot;}" role="button" title="Ariana Remmel" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16711-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-ws_ocWNXoas" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Ariana Remmel&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-ws_ocWNXoas" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/IMG_3304.png" width="2316" height="3088" alt="Ariana Remmel" loading="lazy"></a></article><p>Ariana Remmel is the managing producer of <em>BirdNote Daily</em> and <em>BirdNote en Español</em>. Ari oversees the writing, editing, and development of the radio shows and supports the production of BirdNote’s longform and special projects. Their previous print and audio reporting has appeared in <em>Science</em>, <em>Nature</em>, <em>Audubon Magazine</em>, and elsewhere.</p><p>Ari began their career as a chemist before making the switch to science journalism; they hold an M.S. in chemistry from the University of California San Diego and a M.S. in science communication from the University of California Santa Cruz.</p><p>A lifelong nature enthusiast, Ari is rarely found without a field guide, binoculars, and a wallet-sized scale bar (in case they find a cool bug to photograph!). Ari enjoys volunteering with the National Association of Science Writers, the Central Arkansas Master Naturalists, and their local bird banding station.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>We sat down with Ari to get to know them and their work here at BirdNote!&nbsp;</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Q: How did you end up at BirdNote? What was your journey to here?</h3><p dir="ltr">I joined BirdNote as a full-time managing producer in March of 2025, but I had been a freelance writer and narrator for&nbsp;BirdNote Daily since 2021. At that stage of my career, I was a science journalist primarily writing about chemistry and materials science for a variety of news magazines. But in my free time, I was birding. I realized that I could apply many of the skills I’d developed as a scientist and reporter towards becoming a better birder. I started studying field ornithology, ecology, and conservation biology – and telling anyone who would listen about the wonders of birds and nature. Then one day, as I was listening to my local public radio station in my car, I heard a fun little show with a catchy theme song. A few emails and Zoom calls later, I made my&nbsp;<em>BirdNote Daily</em> debut with a&nbsp;<a href="https://birdnote.org/birdnote-daily/migrations-series-home">16 episode series about migration</a>.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Q: What does a day in your life at BirdNote look like?</h3><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/A-Remmel-3.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Ariana Remmel&quot;}" role="button" title="Ariana Remmel" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16714-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-BLTphP7i1bI" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Ariana Remmel&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-BLTphP7i1bI" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-09/A-Remmel-3.png" width="430" height="573" alt="Ariana Remmel" loading="lazy"></a></article><p dir="ltr">I work from a home office in Little Rock, Arkansas where I live with three (very spoiled) indoor cats. Every day starts with a cup of bird-friendly coffee, often enjoyed while watching backyard birds in my native plant garden. This morning, I observed a juvenile Northern Mockingbird follow their parent to a stand of pokeweed outside my office window and proceed to gobble down every ripe berry in sight!</p><p dir="ltr">The rest of my day depends entirely on where we are in the production cycle.&nbsp;<em>BirdNote Daily</em>&nbsp;episodes are produced in monthly batches and&nbsp;<em>BirdNote en Español</em> episodes are translated quarterly. This week in September, I’m writing scripts that will start airing in December, editing scripts that we’ll record with narrators to publish in November, and listening to all the new &amp; rerun episodes that will air in October. I also just sent a new batch of&nbsp;<em>BirdNote Daily</em> scripts to our partners at Kizaya so that they can prepare Spanish translations for&nbsp;<em>BirdNote en Español</em>. For folks curious about the many steps involved in producing each episode of our radio shows, I highly recommend checking out the guest seminar that Executive Director Nick Bayard and I presented to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qa2ikdn3Nkk">New York City Bird Alliance about “2-minute Conservation: Storytelling with BirdNote”</a>.&nbsp;</p><h3>&nbsp;</h3><h3>Q: What was your Spark Bird?</h3><p dir="ltr">The first bird I remember connecting with was a Mourning Dove. One morning before school, when I was about 4 years old, I noticed an unusually large smattering of bird poop on the sidewalk in front of my house. The path was shaded by a shrubby tree, so I craned my neck to see what had made such a mess. I found myself looking up at a Mourning Dove that was sitting on a nest and looking down at me. We stared at each other for as long as I could get away with, her quiet and me slack jawed. In that moment, it was the discovery of a lifetime. I checked on my new friend on my way to and from school each day. And long after she moved on, I’ve continued looking for birds – and conspicuous sidewalk white wash.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Q: What is your favorite BirdNote episode?</h3><p dir="ltr">That is a tough question! Over the last 20+ years,&nbsp;<em>BirdNote Daily</em> has published more than 2,500 episodes.&nbsp;<em>BirdNote en Español </em>will have more than 200 episodes before the end of this year. As a writer, narrator, and producer for the radio shows, I hope I can be forgiven for highlighting more than one.&nbsp;</p><p><iframe height="200px" width="100%" frameborder="no" scrolling="no" seamless src="https://player.simplecast.com/d7de5af0-8fc2-47a2-be11-60375824fc86?dark=false"></iframe></p><p dir="ltr">"<a href="https://www.birdnote.org/podcasts/birdnote-daily/birdsong-mnemonics-christian-cooper">Birdsong Mnemonics with Christian Cooper</a>" is definitely toward the top of my list. Not only is it a quirky episode, it was also a group effort. Everyone on the production team, and several folks from other departments, worked together to make this show possible — from the interview and script development to narration and sound design.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">Many people think BirdNote is synonymous with&nbsp;<em>BirdNote Daily</em>, but don’t miss out on the fabulous stories that come out on our podcast&nbsp;<a href="https://birdnote.org/podcasts/bring-birds-back"><em>Bring Birds Bac</em>k</a>. I often highlight the longform show in excerpts on&nbsp;<em>BirdNote Daily</em>, like this beautifully sound-designed episode about&nbsp;"<a href="https://www.birdnote.org/podcasts/birdnote-daily/joy-robins-j-drew-lanham">The Joy of Robins with J. Drew Lanham</a>".</p><p dir="ltr">For Spanish speakers (and learners!), I recommend checking out&nbsp;<em>BirdNote en Español</em>, especially our story about a fascinating symbiosis called&nbsp;"<a href="https://www.birdnote.org/podcasts/birdnote-en-espanol/los-colibries-ayudan-los-acaros-agarrar-aventon">Los colibríes ayudan a los ácaros a agarrar aventón</a>" and an episode inspired by a haunting song I heard in the tropical forests of Veracruz called&nbsp;"<a href="https://birdnote.org/podcasts/birdnote-en-espanol/dos-cueveros-poco-comunes-cantan-en-el-sur-de-mexico">Dos cueveros poco comunes cantan en el sur de México</a>". Both episodes are also available in English.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Q: What would be your bird-themed super power?</h3><p dir="ltr">Another tough question! Birds have some pretty incredible abilities including their incredible&nbsp;<a href="https://birdnote.org/podcasts/birdnote-daily/adaptations-flight">adaptations for flight</a> and the physical transformations they undergo to&nbsp;<a href="https://birdnote.org/podcasts/birdnote-daily/migration-takes-guts-until-it-doesnt">migrate long distances</a>. But if I had to choose just one super power, it would probably be the ability to&nbsp;<a href="https://birdnote.org/podcasts/birdnote-daily/ultraviolet-vision">see ultraviolet light</a>. Many plants and animals have markings that are vibrant in the UV spectrum but invisible to the human eye. I’d love to know what the world looks like to a bird and how much more information I could glean from nature with a heightened sense of sight.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Q: What actions have you been inspired to take for birds?</h3><p dir="ltr">Finally something easy! I already mentioned that I switched to bird-friendly coffee and started a native plant garden to support bird habitat (at home and abroad). Ever the researcher, my favorite ways to support conservation are through community science initiatives. I volunteer with eBird as reviewer for my region and with my local bird observatory as a bird banding assistant. I recently started leading a series of outings tailored to beginner birders as a way to get more people involved in conservation and to recruit volunteers for the annual Christmas Bird Count. And of course, as a BirdNote staffer, I get to introduce people across the Americas to the joy of birds by producing episodes about species of conservation concern and the actions we can all take to protect them.</p></div><span><span>Daniellaga</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-08-01T09:05:36-07:00" title="Saturday, August 1, 2026 - 09:05">Sat, 08/01/2026 - 09:05</time> </span> <a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/IMG_3304.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Ariana Remmel at a Christmas Bird Count&quot;}" role="button" title="© Courtesy of Ariana Remmel" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-field_notes-18231-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-kQNK6HaRzXg" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Ariana Remmel at a Christmas Bird Count&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-kQNK6HaRzXg" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/styles/show_banner/public/IMG_3304.png?h=9dc95b1d&amp;itok=ZjZotIiL" width="628" height="460" alt="Ariana Remmel at a Christmas Bird Count" loading="lazy"></a> Courtesy of Ariana Remmel 0 <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--multimedia paragraph--view-mode--default paragraph--id--14043 paragraph--background-image paragraph--background--0 paragraph-- clearfix"><div class="block-container"></div></div> Sat, 01 Aug 2026 16:05:36 +0000 Daniellaga 18231 at http://birdnote.org http://birdnote.org/explore/field-notes/2026/07/puffins-fog-and-wild-coast-birdwatchers-quest-through-maine <span>Puffins, Fog, and the Wild Coast: A Birdwatcher’s Quest Through Maine</span> <div class="narrow--container paragraph paragraph--background--0"><article class="align-center"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/_G6A0895.jpg" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Atlantic Puffins&quot;}" role="button" title="Atlantic Puffins" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16686-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-feul5NZuR7A" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Atlantic Puffins&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-feul5NZuR7A" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/_G6A0895.jpg" width="1525" height="1017" alt="Atlantic Puffins" loading="lazy"></a></article><p><em>This piece was written by guest author Tahmina Watson, an immigration attorney, nature photographer, and author based in Seattle. She shares the winding journey of her long-awaited puffin pilgrimage to Maine, and how cancellations, rough seas, and dense fog ultimately made the experience even more unforgettable. All photos featured were captured by Tahmina.</em></p><hr><p>It was during a summer trip to New Hampshire in 2024 that I first considered extending my journey into neighboring Maine. A curious search on eBird and a few clicks later, I discovered that the state is home to one of North America’s most beloved seabirds: the Atlantic Puffin. I was captivated.</p><p>That moment sparked a travel goal I hadn’t anticipated. I quickly found the Bold Coast Charter Company, a highly recommended operator offering puffin-watching tours off the remote Downeast coast. But by the time I reached their website, every tour was sold out. Disappointed but determined, I made a mental note, and a digital calendar alert, to try again the following year.</p><p>In March 2025, the reservations opened. At 5:55 a.m. Pacific Time, with the kind of nervous anticipation usually reserved for concert ticket releases, I logged on. Nothing happened. Then at 6:10 a.m., a message appeared: I was the 200th person in the virtual queue. My heart sank. But finally, I secured a coveted summer booking. The puffin pilgrimage was back on.</p><p>As the trip approached, real life intervened, work, family travel planning, and the usual logistics. With children and extended family involved, organizing this adventure wasn’t simple. But I was determined to see it through. When the day came to confirm details with the tour operator, I placed a call during lunch. That’s when I heard the words no traveler wants to hear: “<em>I’m so sorry, but your trip has been canceled due to rough seas</em>.”</p><p>There was a long pause. I asked her to repeat it, twice, hoping I had misunderstood. I hadn’t.</p><p>With my accommodations four and a half hours away close to Cutler Maine, where I was to take my original cruise, I pivoted. A quick search revealed other puffin tours available farther south, and I quickly secured two backup trips. I decided to make the most of it.</p><p>Driving through rural Maine revealed a version of America that felt timeless, long stretches of pine-framed highways, minimal cell service, and few signs of modern life. As the daylight faded and the rain set in, I finally reached the Machias River Inn, where a kind staff member welcomed me just as the skies opened. The inn was a welcome surprise: rustic yet airy, simple but well-maintained. My room overlooked the river, though at night, it looked more like a misty abyss than a waterway.</p><p>At sunrise, the view transformed. A soft glow lit the Machias River, and the landscape came to life. I took in the serenity, snapped a few photos, and set off toward Bar Harbor for my next scheduled cruise.</p><p>Bar Harbor, with its postcard-perfect coastal charm, greeted me with sea breezes, sun-drenched docks, and the cheerful bustle of summer tourists. Families strolled with ice cream cones, seagulls wheeled overhead, and boats rocked gently in the harbor. I boarded a puffin tour with Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. and, while the birds were too distant for crisp photography, the sight of puffins skimming the waves was thrilling nonetheless. The chilly winds and choppy waters made me appreciate just how accurate the “rough seas” warning had been.</p><article class="align-center"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/Bald%20Eagle%20-%201.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Bald Eagle&quot;}" role="button" title="Bald Eagle" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16695-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-W2nycG4tpnI" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Bald Eagle&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-W2nycG4tpnI" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/Bald%20Eagle%20-%201.png" width="900" height="600" alt="Bald Eagle" loading="lazy"></a></article><p>After the cruise, I drove the scenic loop through Acadia National Park, stopping frequently to photograph birds and soak in the breathtaking views. The park’s dramatic cliffs, forested trails, and sweeping coastal vistas were stunning in the golden afternoon light. One of the highlights was spotting a bald eagle hidden among the foliage, just its white head visible. It became one of my favorite captures to date.</p><p>That evening, I checked into the Pathmaker Hotel, a warm and thoughtfully designed retreat conveniently located across from a local grocer where I treated myself to a classic Maine lobster roll, fresh, buttery, and unforgettable.<br>The next morning, a heavy fog had settled in, and I headed to Petit Island Point for a more intimate puffin-watching experience. Run by a husband-and-wife team, this small boat tour Acadia Puffin Cruise offered close-up views of Petit Manan Island, one of Maine’s key puffin nesting sites. The sea was unforgiving, waves swelled high, and fog cloaked the horizon. But I was prepared. Birding has made me far more adventurous than I ever imagined.</p><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/Atlantic%20Puffin%20in%20water.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Atlantic Puffin in water&quot;}" role="button" title="Atlantic Puffin in water" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16693-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-4aOCK39mLzA" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Atlantic Puffin in water&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-4aOCK39mLzA" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/Atlantic%20Puffin%20in%20water.png" width="375" height="250" alt="Atlantic Puffin in water" loading="lazy"></a></article><p>As we neared the island, the puffins slowly emerged from the mist, almost as if they were appearing out of another world. At first, there were only a few tiny silhouettes bobbing on the gray water. Then more came into view, floating in small groups, diving beneath the surface, darting low across the waves with astonishing speed, and occasionally lifting into the air with their rapid, whirring wingbeats. Their bright orange beaks glowed against the muted landscape, tiny flashes of color piercing the fog like little lanterns.</p><p>Above us, Arctic Terns wheeled effortlessly through the sky, their graceful calls carried by the wind, while curious gray seals surfaced against the rocky island shores, then close to the boat. Their dark eyes quietly observing us before disappearing beneath the water again. Every direction offered another reminder that this stretch of Maine's coast belonged first and foremost to its wildlife.</p><p>The dense fog and rolling seas made photography especially challenging. The boat rocked constantly from side to side, making it nearly impossible to keep my camera steady. Each time I focused on a puffin, another wave would shift the boat just enough to throw it out of frame. But somehow, none of that mattered. I was simply grateful to be there. I reminded myself that if I came home with only one or two photographs I truly loved, it would be enough. Some moments are meant to be experienced first and photographed second.</p><article class="align-center"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/Atlantic%20Puffins%20-%20swimming.jpg" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Atlantic Puffins swimming&quot;}" role="button" title="Atlantic Puffins swimming" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16692-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-n5baWUXFcZ0" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Atlantic Puffins swimming&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-n5baWUXFcZ0" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/Atlantic%20Puffins%20-%20swimming.jpg" width="2865" height="1910" alt="Atlantic Puffins swimming" loading="lazy"></a></article><p>Our journey concluded with a brief stop at Egg Rock Island, where harbor seals lounged across smooth rocks softened by the mist. The entire scene felt surreal, as though I had stepped into a watercolor painting, muted shades of gray and blue blending together, softened by the fog until sea, sky, and stone seemed to melt into one another. Everything was wonderfully quiet, peaceful, and dreamlike.</p><p>That afternoon, I began the drive back toward the airport, reflecting on the winding and unexpected path this adventure had taken. What began as a simple quest to see one remarkable bird had become something far greater: a journey through Maine's rugged coastlines, charming fishing villages, hidden harbors, and protected islands, each revealing its own quiet beauty.</p><p>Most of all, I carried with me the memory of those puffins in the mist. Their orange beaks burned brightly against the silver-gray sea, their fast, determined flights flashing past my camera before disappearing into the fog. They looked almost mythical, creatures suspended between sea and sky. I thought about how close I had come to missing this experience because of the weather, and how fortunate I was that a handful of dedicated tour operators were willing to brave the rough conditions, giving visitors like me the opportunity to witness these extraordinary birds during such a fleeting window of the year.</p><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/Atlantic%20Puffin%20-%20flying_0.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Atlantic Puffin flying&quot;}" role="button" title="Atlantic Puffin flying" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16691-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-PUecgPmSeOg" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Atlantic Puffin flying&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-PUecgPmSeOg" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/Atlantic%20Puffin%20-%20flying_0.png" width="375" height="250" alt="Atlantic Puffin flying" loading="lazy"></a></article><p>As I drove away from the coast, I realized that the photographs were only part of what I was bringing home. I was so grateful for this precious experience. The true gift of the journey was the reminder that nature rarely unfolds according to our plans. Sometimes the greatest beauty reveals itself not beneath clear blue skies, but through fog, uncertainty, and patience. Had the day been sunny, I might have captured sharper photographs. Instead, I left with something even more memorable: the image of puffins emerging from the mist like living brushstrokes on a canvas, a scene that felt less like wildlife watching and more like stepping into a dream.</p><p>Birding has expanded not only the way I travel, but how I see the world. Maine, with its wild beauty and weathered charm, reminded me that nature is never predictable, but always worth chasing.</p><hr><h6><strong>About the Author</strong></h6><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/Tahmina%20Watson.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Tahmina Watson&quot;}" role="button" title="Tahmina Watson" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16685-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-TOzLph9kuyo" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Tahmina Watson&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-TOzLph9kuyo" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-07/Tahmina%20Watson.png" width="285" height="285" alt="Tahmina Watson" loading="lazy"></a></article><p><strong>Tahmina Watson</strong> is an immigration attorney, nature photographer and author of the “Color Your Joy” coloring book series. She lives in Seattle and shares her work at <a href="https://tahminawatson.com">tahminawatson.com</a>.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><hr><p>^{All photos © Tahmina Watson}</p></div><span><span>BibiBP</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-07-31T08:00:00-07:00" title="Friday, July 31, 2026 - 08:00">Fri, 07/31/2026 - 08:00</time> </span> <a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/Puffin.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Atlantic Puffin in water&quot;}" role="button" title="© " data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-field_notes-18211-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox--eiyg5qRkQY" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Atlantic Puffin in water&quot;}"><img id="colorbox--eiyg5qRkQY" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/styles/show_banner/public/Puffin.png?h=55541bb6&amp;itok=zDmMNRS5" width="628" height="460" alt="Atlantic Puffin in water" loading="lazy"></a> 0 <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--multimedia paragraph--view-mode--default paragraph--id--14003 paragraph--background-image paragraph--background--0 paragraph-- clearfix"><div class="block-container"></div></div> Fri, 31 Jul 2026 15:00:00 +0000 BibiBP 18211 at http://birdnote.org http://birdnote.org/explore/field-notes/2026/05/dont-extinguish-firecrown-island-conservation-and-its-challenges <span>Don't Extinguish the Firecrown: Island Conservation and Its Challenges</span> <div class="narrow--container paragraph paragraph--background--0"><article class="align-center"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/Firecrown.jpeg" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Juan Fernandez Firecrown&quot;}" role="button" title="Juan Fernandez Firecrown" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16675-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-tBcz-WWqcfo" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Juan Fernandez Firecrown&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-tBcz-WWqcfo" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/Firecrown.jpeg" width="1200" height="960" alt="Juan Fernandez Firecrown" loading="lazy"></a></article><p><em>This piece was researched and written by a team of University of Washington students: Kade Smiley, Brayden L Davis, Kyle Devilbiss, Steven Marking, and Eni Peters. Read on to learn more about the Juan Fernández Firecrown and how invasive species, habitat loss, and isolation threaten one of the world’s rarest hummingbirds.</em></p><hr><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/Map.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Robinson Crusoe Island&quot;}" role="button" title="Robinson Crusoe Island" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16676-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-y4A-W9oSGRI" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Robinson Crusoe Island&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-y4A-W9oSGRI" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/Map.png" width="350" height="250" alt="Robinson Crusoe Island" loading="lazy"></a></article><p dir="ltr">Just two and a half hours by plane from the coast of Chile lies the small mountainous Robinson Crusoe Island – or as it’s known in Spanish, Isla Robinson Crusoe – the second largest of the Juan Fernández Islands. Although its total area is a mere 18.5 square miles, Robinson Crusoe Island is home to nearly 100 species of plants and animals that are found nowhere else in the world.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">In the native forests of Robinson Crusoe Island, you might be able to catch a glimpse of one of these species whizzing by. A flash of fiery orange or deep blue jumping from one flower to the next, then for a moment, it stills. Wings a blur, body suspended in air, its crown catching the light like fire; this is the Juan Fernández Firecrown (<em>Sephanoides fernandensis</em>), a hummingbird found nowhere else on Earth.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">At just under four and a half inches long, the Juan Fernandez Firecrown is one of the largest hummingbirds in the world. The males live up to their name, with vibrant, bright orange plumage and a fiery, iridescent yellow crown. The females boast a bright green head and back, a white chest and belly, and a dark blue crown. They spend their days zooming through the island’s native forests, catching insects in their long black beaks, and hanging on to flowers to drink the nectar they produce. The Firecrown is considered an ‘endemic’ species because of their restriction to a single isolated geographical area.&nbsp;</p><article class="align-center"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/Male%20-%20female%20-%20firecrown.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Male and female Juan Fernandez Firecrown&quot;}" role="button" title="Male and female Juan Fernandez Firecrown" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16677-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-WKGs9wjprXc" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Male and female Juan Fernandez Firecrown&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-WKGs9wjprXc" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/Male%20-%20female%20-%20firecrown.png" width="1199" height="799" alt="Male and female Juan Fernandez Firecrown" loading="lazy"></a></article><p dir="ltr">Unfortunately, these spectacular hummingbirds are critically endangered.&nbsp;The best estimates suggest that there are only 1,000-3,000 of these birds left on Robinson Crusoe Island, and their population is currently declining. Their decline reflects a broader global pattern of vulnerability and decline among endemic island species. The Earth’s islands are home to half of the world’s endangered species, including 41%&nbsp;of threatened bird species, and have been the sites of three-quarters of recorded extinctions. Several factors of island life put endemic island species like the Juan Fernandez Firecrown at higher risk of extinction than mainland species, and habitat loss and invasive species are some of the main drivers of the decline of endemic island species. And on Robinson Crusoe Island, more is at stake than the fate of the hummingbird. The Juan Fernandez Firecrown is the island's primary pollinator, tying its survival to the survival of the very forests it calls home.</p><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/Robinson%20Crusoe%20Island.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Robinson Crusoe Island&quot;}" role="button" title="Robinson Crusoe Island" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16679-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-Fuy-04YhYZo" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Robinson Crusoe Island&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-Fuy-04YhYZo" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/Robinson%20Crusoe%20Island.png" width="239" height="250" alt="Robinson Crusoe Island" loading="lazy"></a></article><p dir="ltr">Habitat loss is the leading cause of biodiversity decline globally, and it is no different on islands. Surrounded by oceans, islands are inherently limited in space. Because there is only so much habitat to go around, endemic island species often have small populations that are more vulnerable to extinction.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">When habitat is already scarce, minor habitat loss or degradation can have major consequences. The driving factor behind habitat loss on Robinson Crusoe Island is deforestation of native forests. In the past, deforestation was primarily driven by human activity, like land clearing and woodcutting, but it is now primarily driven by invasive species. Invasive herbivores such as feral goats and European rabbits strip the island of native plants, allowing for fast-growing invasive plant species to infiltrate and take over the forest.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">For the Juan Fernandez Firecrown, the decline of native forests presents a threat beyond habitat loss. Native plant species and the Firecrown have co-evolved, meaning that the species have evolved in response to each other. Native plants depend on the Firecrown to pollinate their flowers, and the Firecrown depends on native plants such as the cabbage tree and the Luma tree for food and nesting sites. A decrease in native forest means less food and fewer nesting sites, which causes the Firecrown population to shrink, causing further decline in native forests in a vicious cycle.</p><p dir="ltr">Another threat to endemic island species is the presence of invasive predators, including rats and domestic cats. The Juan Fernandez Firecrown faces threats from invasive rats which eat their eggs, and cats and coati which prey upon adult birds. This type of predator hits endemic island birds harder than their mainland counterparts because they&nbsp;do not have a shared evolutionary history. Unfortunately for the prey species in these relationships, this often means that they have a very limited ability to defend themselves against introduced predators or adapt to protect themselves.&nbsp;</p><article class="align-center"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/MaleFirecrown_KenLogan.jpg" aria-label="{&quot;title&quot;:&quot;Male Juan Fernandez Firecrown feeding from the flower of a native cabbage tree&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Male Juan Fernandez Firecrown feeding from the flower of a native cabbage tree&quot;}" role="button" title="Male Juan Fernandez Firecrown feeding from the flower of a native cabbage tree" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16674-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-_jyzW3O4iGg" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;title&quot;:&quot;Male Juan Fernandez Firecrown feeding from the flower of a native cabbage tree&quot;,&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Male Juan Fernandez Firecrown feeding from the flower of a native cabbage tree&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-_jyzW3O4iGg" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/MaleFirecrown_KenLogan.jpg" width="1024" height="797" alt="Male Juan Fernandez Firecrown feeding from the flower of a native cabbage tree" title="Male Juan Fernandez Firecrown feeding from the flower of a native cabbage tree" loading="lazy"></a></article><p dir="ltr">As is the case for other island species around the globe, dedicated groups are working to secure the long-term survival of the Juan Fernandez Firecrown. One such group is Oikonos Ecosystem Knowledge (OEK), a long-term, community-based conservation effort started in 2001. They provide volunteer opportunities, environmental education, and focus on involving local communities in the conservation of endangered species. On Robinson Crusoe Island, OEK is striving to restore the native forest habitat of the Firecrown by controlling invasive plants and eradicating rabbits from the island.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">Unfortunately, these projects are expensive. The estimate for removing invasive mammals from the island was about $17 million in 2011, and as of 2022, efforts to eradicate invasive coati were started by the NGO Island Conservation. Efforts by organizations such as Oikonos Ecosystem Knowledge and Island Conservation are not limited by willpower or skill, but by funding. The best way to support these conservation efforts is through direct financial contribution, whether by donating to trusted conservation organizations, sponsoring specific restoration projects, or supporting broader island conservation initiatives. Individuals can also help by spreading awareness, advocating for biodiversity funding, and supporting policies and programs that prioritize habitat protection and invasive species management. For more information, follow the links at the bottom of this page to find out more about how to help.</p><p dir="ltr">Even small contributions, combined across many people, can help critically endangered island species like the Juan Fernandez Firecrown have a fighting chance.</p><hr><p class="lead">Resources&nbsp;</p><ul><li data-list-item-id="ede5606916274e2fa0c1584240a95c5a2"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.oikonos.org/species/juan-fernandez-firecrown">https://www.oikonos.org/species/juan-fernandez-firecrown</a></p></li><li data-list-item-id="e0a42f7a932b4ae2886d0cfb40a575895"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.hummingbirdsociety.org/donate">https://www.hummingbirdsociety.org/donate</a></p></li><li data-list-item-id="eea566024008ccf81c8e916d0cc4aa77e"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.islandconservation.org/how-to-help/">https://www.islandconservation.org/how-to-help/</a></p></li><li data-list-item-id="e54ee3895edae2d1125a2b8cde83159f5"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://doi.org/10.4067/s0717-92002011000200006">https://doi.org/10.4067/s0717-92002011000200006</a>&nbsp;</p></li><li data-list-item-id="ed60406ef3d27fab6e70825c83eeac346"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://albatross-birding.com/birds-and-culture-of-robinson-crusoe-island/">https://albatross-birding.com/birds-and-culture-of-robinson-crusoe-island/</a>&nbsp;</p></li><li data-list-item-id="ed32b0ee1fe874156102ab249e0b3f678"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://doi.org/10.2173/bow.juffir1.02">https://doi.org/10.2173/bow.juffir1.02</a>&nbsp;</p></li><li data-list-item-id="ef07612d71c0085ad05318a5a3abe85b6"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2020-3.RLTS.T22687863A179402328.en">&nbsp;https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2020-3.RLTS.T22687863A179402328.en</a></p></li><li data-list-item-id="ec89600fa2c99168a4dca214c82273145"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gecco.2021.e01847">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gecco.2021.e01847</a></p></li><li data-list-item-id="e710e956a0f8ac868d9ab5363655a150e"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-95981-8_78">https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-95981-8_78</a></p></li><li data-list-item-id="eb1d2ce9c1708e73966a303b0fe0c5c28"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12234038">https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12234038</a></p></li><li data-list-item-id="eeb8e6ad0ea192aadce6f2ba9b1c06390"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://doi.org/10.1017/S003060530002322X">https://doi.org/10.1017/S003060530002322X</a></p></li><li data-list-item-id="e3dd23832985b0285da953c77297234b5"><p dir="ltr"><a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1523-1739.2003.00173.x">https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1523-1739.2003.00173.x</a></p></li></ul><hr><p class="lead" dir="ltr">Photo Credits</p><p dir="ltr">Juan Fernández Firecrown (thumbnail photo) © Peter Hodum/Oikonos</p><p dir="ltr">Satellite image of Robinson Crusoe Island (top) and Santa Clara Island (bottom). Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://science.nasa.gov/earth/earth-observatory/robinson-crusoe-island-147731/">NASA’s Earth Observatory</a>.&nbsp;</p><p dir="ltr">Female Juan Fernández Firecrown © María Jesús Martí (Cornell Lab of Ornithology | Macaulay Library)</p><p dir="ltr">Male (left) and female (right) Juan Fernández Firecrown © Peter Hodum/Oikonos</p><p dir="ltr">Photo of Robinson Crusoe Island in 1860. Source:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.getty.edu/art/collection/object/108Z7N">Getty Museum Collection</a></p><p dir="ltr">Male Juan Fernández Firecrown © Ken Logan</p></div><span><span>BibiBP</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-05-11T10:49:29-07:00" title="Monday, May 11, 2026 - 10:49">Mon, 05/11/2026 - 10:49</time> </span> <a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/Email%20Comms%20Images%20%5B2026%5D%20%283%29.jpg" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Juan Fernández Firecrown sitting on a branch. &quot;}" role="button" title="© Peter Hodum/Oikonos" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-field_notes-18160-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-u9njq1-yQ5M" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Juan Fernández Firecrown sitting on a branch. &quot;}"><img id="colorbox-u9njq1-yQ5M" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/styles/show_banner/public/Email%20Comms%20Images%20%5B2026%5D%20%283%29.jpg?h=10d202d3&amp;itok=5TdGPJ6I" width="628" height="460" alt="Juan Fernández Firecrown sitting on a branch. " loading="lazy"></a> Peter Hodum/Oikonos 0 <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--multimedia paragraph--view-mode--default paragraph--id--13915 paragraph--background-image paragraph--background--0 paragraph-- clearfix"><div class="block-container"></div></div> Mon, 11 May 2026 17:49:29 +0000 BibiBP 18160 at http://birdnote.org http://birdnote.org/explore/field-notes/2026/05/together-flyway-black-volunteers-bird-conservation <span>Together on the Flyway: Black Volunteers in Bird Conservation</span> <div class="narrow--container paragraph paragraph--background--0"><p class="text-align-center"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YsZp9TCZNTw?si=CHZYUkVEZh3zZ5oo" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p><p class="text-align-center">&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Every bird has a journey, and so do the people who help protect them.</strong></p><p>On May 26th, BirdNote and Black AF in STEM hosted a special conversation with passionate volunteers who shared what it looks like to show up for birds. From dimming city lights during migration to monitoring nests and tracking seasonal movements, these conservationists are making a real impact, and in this talk, they dived deep into how you can, too.</p><p>They explored these topics and shared more about how anyone can get involved, including efforts such as:</p><ul><li data-list-item-id="e99591ef41570fa96d63f9186f84e6b29">Lights Out Campaign – helping migratory birds navigate safely through city lights</li><li data-list-item-id="edd7e15617f8dd4adc3eda2d48730ba91">Window collision monitoring or recovery – documenting or rescuing birds after building strikes</li><li data-list-item-id="e4c8f2bb02f7e7e52a2bb9f0b53dfabd5">Nest Watch – tracking nesting success and fledgling rates</li><li data-list-item-id="ec85de3ba58de248f453fd476c180489a">Project FeederWatch – counting winter birds at your backyard feeder</li><li data-list-item-id="e7ddd7cbe65c2e1230f63b2c10c14fd64">Migration tracking – monitoring the movements of birds during spring or fall migration</li></ul><p>Hear their stories and walk away with real ways to take action and become part of something bigger!</p><hr><h5><strong>About our Panelists</strong></h5><p><strong>Jayshaun Talbert</strong></p><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/Jayshaun%20Talbert_0.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Jayshaun Talbert&quot;}" role="button" title="Jayshaun Talbert" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16665-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-ZKNtMN_vUsY" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Jayshaun Talbert&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-ZKNtMN_vUsY" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/Jayshaun%20Talbert_0.png" width="250" height="250" alt="Jayshaun Talbert" loading="lazy"></a></article><p>Jayshaun Talbert (He/him) is an undergraduate student studying Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Sciences at Oregon State University. He's been interested in animals before he could remember and fell into loving birds in his late teens. He's had the privilege of being a part of several avian projects ranging from seabirds, raptors, songbirds, sage-grouse and more! In fact, he's currently doing an undergraduate thesis studying Northern Saw-Whet Owl populations. His long-term career goal is to become a wildlife research biologist. When he's not doing anything wildlife-related, he enjoys adventuring with his friends, reading, watching tv shows, going to the gym, and dying hair.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Susanna Hermanns</strong></p><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/Susanna%20Hermanns.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Susanna Hermanns&quot;}" role="button" title="Susanna Hermanns" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16666-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-45uycKtcxkQ" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Susanna Hermanns&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-45uycKtcxkQ" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/Susanna%20Hermanns.png" width="250" height="250" alt="Susanna Hermanns" loading="lazy"></a></article><p>Susanna is an educator, organizer, and bird lover. As an MA Candidate in Environmental Studies, her academic career focuses on the lives of the resident birds of southern Ontario and the effects of urban ecosystems on bird behaviour and distribution. Growing up working class and entering university through a non-traditional path, her first engagement with ornithology research came through citizen science. As a lifelong birder, she aims to share her journey and meanwhile help to overcome barriers to research for Black and working-class birders.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Nia Williams</strong></p><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/Nia%20Williams.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Nia Williams&quot;}" role="button" title="Nia Williams" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16667-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-I06CktLb6u8" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Nia Williams&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-I06CktLb6u8" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/Nia%20Williams.png" width="250" height="250" alt="Nia Williams" loading="lazy"></a></article><p>Nia Williams is a D(M)V native, a writer, and an incoming veterinary student at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. Her work centers on the intersection between the wellbeing of animals, the environment, and marginalized humans -- particularly in cities. She is a former staff member and volunteer of NYC's only wildlife hospital, and is passionate about bringing more kin folk into the animal and conservation fields.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Nicole Jackson (moderator)</strong></p><article class="align-left"><span class="field__label visually-hidden">Image: </span><a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/Nicole%20Jackson.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Nicole Jackson&quot;}" role="button" title="Nicole Jackson" data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-image-16668-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-LTkgjJRKubE" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Nicole Jackson&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-LTkgjJRKubE" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/Nicole%20Jackson.png" width="250" height="250" alt="Nicole Jackson" loading="lazy"></a></article><p>Nicole Jackson (she/her) is a native of Cleveland, Ohio and graduated from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Education. A nature enthusiast, park advocate, and birder, she loves spending time outside and has a passion for getting people from underserved communities connected to the wonders of the natural world. Nicole currently works as a nature connection coach and environmental education consultant, helping both individuals and organizations develop inclusive programs that teach youth and families how to cultivate a healthy relationship with nature. She is also a member of the Black AF in STEM Collective, an organizer for the Black Birders Week Planning Team, and the founder of Black in National Parks Week.</p></div><span><span>BibiBP</span></span> <span><time datetime="2026-05-01T08:19:00-07:00" title="Friday, May 1, 2026 - 08:19">Fri, 05/01/2026 - 08:19</time> </span> <a href="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/2026%20Black%20Birders%20Week%20Digital%20Flyer%20%28110%20x%20110%20px%29.png" aria-label="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Black Birders Week 2026&quot;}" role="button" title="© " data-colorbox-gallery="gallery-field_notes-18159-gAfREzOoPAY" class="colorbox" aria-controls="colorbox-xHUQ8MCRCko" data-cbox-img-attrs="{&quot;alt&quot;:&quot;Black Birders Week 2026&quot;}"><img id="colorbox-xHUQ8MCRCko" src="http://birdnote.org/sites/default/files/styles/show_banner/public/2026%20Black%20Birders%20Week%20Digital%20Flyer%20%28110%20x%20110%20px%29.png?h=f638f435&amp;itok=fwdeqTrD" width="628" height="460" alt="Black Birders Week 2026" loading="lazy"></a> 0 <div class="paragraph paragraph--type--multimedia paragraph--view-mode--default paragraph--id--13914 paragraph--background-image paragraph--background--0 paragraph-- clearfix"><div class="block-container"></div></div> Fri, 01 May 2026 15:19:00 +0000 BibiBP 18159 at http://birdnote.org