From the Editor
What I think about
It can be nothing and everything: The weather. Subspecies. And, more and more frequently, the coming elections.
Features
Whitewater diver
What changing numbers and new winter locations mean for our most beautiful sea duck.
Almost dinner
The amazing story of the hiker who came eye to eye with a Great Gray Owl.
Birds on our radar
Leaders of the birding community describe issues that birders care about in the coming election year.
The subspecies conundrum
How it’s decided whether a subspecies deserves recognition as a full species.
Tablet Extras
See the articles from BirdWatching and other online resources that we added to our February issue.
Columns
Since You Asked
Answers to your questions
Unusual tail bands, woodpeckers that peck on stone walls, and more.
Birder at Large
The good stuff
Why no birder regrets buying premium binoculars.
Attracting Birds
For better or worse
Dealing with the smart and spirited Blue Jay.
Amazing Birds
Feather basics
Why birds’ feathers come in so many shapes and sizes.
ID Tips
Northern Harrier
Only a minority of harriers are in the ‘gray ghost’ category.
ID Toolkit
Bill shape
To understand the wide variation, look first to similarities in structure.
Hotspots Near You
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225. ‘Aiea Loop Trail, Aiea, Hawaii
A nearly five-mile path northwest of Honolulu where you can spot honeycreepers, Mariana Swiftlet, and other forest birds.
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226. Robert K. Rees Memorial Park, New Port Richey, Florida
Beach, wetlands, and a mangrove swamp attract waterfowl, rails, spoonbills, warblers, and many other birds.
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227. Ormond Beach and Wetlands, Oxnard, California
More than 200 species have been found on this beach and adjacent wetlands south of Oxnard.
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228. Port Aransas Nature Preserve, Port Aransas, Texas
Less than an hour from Corpus Christi, this preserve is a great place to find raptors, waterfowl, shorebirds, and songbirds.
Also in Every Issue
Birding Briefs
Important news about birds, birdwatching, and conservation.
Your View
Reader-submitted photographs, including the winner of our regular Photo of the Week contest.