The author of the popular Sibley Guide to Birds and other books explains bird behaviors and field marks, birding techniques, and more.
Two views of a Song Sparrow: The illustration at left shows the full color pattern with a flank feather and a throat feather on the side. At right is the same bird with its feather edges outlined to show the change in size of feathers from the head to the body. Art by David Sibley
David Sibley warns of the tricks light can play on birders when it comes to identification.
Read More “Why lighting conditions can throw birders a curveball”
How feathers react after a drenching can affect our perceptions of birds’ appearances.
Use these tips to identify two of the most prominent groups of streaky brown birds.
Understanding how and when feathers on the rump are visible can improve your birding skills.
Across much of the world, winter is a season for studying waterbirds, and if you have access to a large body of water (ocean, large lake, or river), then it’s worth looking for waterbirds during storms. This has the potential for some of the most exciting birding. Birds sense the lower pressure of a storm … Read More “Birds to look for when winter winds kick up”
What to watch for when birds flash their tails. Read More “Patches in birds’ tail feathers can lead you to ID them”
When temperatures drop, birds require food and shelter.
Basic binocular skills can help you locate birds within dense foliage.
The behavior is a signal to predators to move along.
