Birds of a Feather Talk Together

82: Kirk Wallace Johnson Interview - Author of The Feather Thief Mar 03, 2025

In today’s episode, we’re joined by Kirk Wallace Johnson, the author of The Feather Thief: Beauty, Obsession, and the Natural History Heist of the Century. This gripping true-crime tale takes us into the world of rare bird feathers and the relentless pursuit of a bizarre criminal and the feathers that he stole from The Natural History Museum in Tring. Kirk's meticulous research and storytelling uncover an astonishing story of a thief, the feathers he stole, and the worldwide pursuit. So settle in, because today, we’re talking to Kirk about how this all came together.

As always, you have John Bates, Shannon Hackett, Amanda Marquart, and RJ Pole here for Birds of a Feather Talk Together.

Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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81: The Feather Thief Part 6: Obsession, A Possible Accomplice, Final Thoughts Feb 24, 2025

This week we close out with our final thoughts on the Feather Thief, as well as talk about the importance of museums and their collections. It’s our last episode before we talk to the author Kirk Wallace Johnson, so get ready for next week.

This week we talk a little bit about obsession in general, and how it is human nature to become obsessed, whether it was Alfred Russel Wallace, or even Edwin Rist. It’s important to channel that obsession into something positive because it can go dark really quick.

We start off talking about the accomplice in the book named Long, and whether or not he was manipulated by Edwin. We’ll be back to our regularly scheduled programming discussing different birds soon enough. Once back, we are kicking it off with episodes on the Harlequin Duck and the Mourning Dove. So get ready for those in a couple weeks.

80: The Feather Thief Part 5: The Crime, The Importance of Museum Collections, also a discussion on Canada and also precious metals Feb 17, 2025

Welcome back to Part 5 of our exploration of the book The Feather Thief. We discuss the horrific act that’s still causing ripples in the world of museums. We’ll also take a closer look at the role museum collections play in science—a subject misunderstood by some fly-tiers in the book. We also talk about how museum specimens drive scientific progress. We’ll also touch on some of the oddball research requests museums have received over the years, including one inquiry about the Ivory-Billed Woodpecker.

We begin with a brief talk into Shannon’s thoughts on Canadian-American relations, particularly the threats of tariffs, before drifting into a discussion on precious metals and their unexpected influence on foreign policy decisions. But don’t worry—it’s all over in a flash, and then, it’s back to The Feather Thief and all its intrigue.

As always, you have John Bates, Shannon Hackett, Amanda Marquart, and RJ Pole here for Birds of a Feather Talk Together.

Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Make sure to follow us on Instagram, Blue Sky Social, YouTube and tik tok as well!!

79: The Feather Thief Part 4: The Argus Pheasant and Jason Weckstein Joins Us Again!! Feb 10, 2025

Our adventure through the pages of the book The Feather Thief continues! We’re thrilled to have Jason Weckstein join us again. Jason is an enthusiastic fly fisherman and fly-tier, and also an amazing ornithologist. He joined us last week, and is back with even more laughs, stories, and an extraordinary depth of insight into the quirky worlds of both fly tying and bird watching.

We dive into one of the birds mentioned in the book: the Argus Pheasant. Shannon has some captivating info about these birds’ remarkable feathers, and the unique way that they produce the color blue. We also get into the similarities and differences between fly-fishing and birdwatching.

Jason is an Associate Curator of Ornithology at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University and Associate Professor in the Department of Biodiversity, Earth, and Environmental Science, Drexel University.

As always, you have John Bates, Shannon Hackett, Amanda Marquart, and RJ Pole here for Birds of a Feather Talk Together.

Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Make sure to follow us on Instagram, Blue Sky Social, YouTube and tik tok as well!!

78: The Feather Thief Part 3: Fly-tying with guest Jason Weckstein Feb 03, 2025

We are doing a mini-series on The Feather Thief by Kirk Wallace Johnson. This week we have a very special guest, Jason Weckstein, join us for a conversation about the intricacies of fly-tying. Jason is not only an avid fly fisherman and fly tier but also a passionate ornithologist. Jason is an Associate Curator of Ornithology at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University and Associate Professor in the Department of Biodiversity, Earth, and Environmental Science, Drexel University.

Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart for Birds of a Feather Talk Together.
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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77: The Feather Thief Part 2: Walter Rothschild, Feather Fever, and the start of the Audubon Society Jan 27, 2025

Part two of our Feather Thief mini-series! This week we cover chapters on Walter Rothschild’s infamous museum, the fashion madness known as "feather fever," which drove people to decimate millions of rare and exotic birds. Then we’ll explore the aftermath—how a group of determined women, appalled by the devastation, sparked a movement to protect birds, culminating in the founding of the Audubon Society.

We are doing a mini-series that will break down parts of the book, and to sum it all up will be talking with the author Kirk Wallace Johnson.
Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart for Birds of a Feather Talk Together.
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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76: The Feather Thief Part 1 - Alfred Russel Wallace, also the horrific crime that occurred at the museum Jan 20, 2025

We're doing something a little different—a mini-series focused on the book The Feather Thief by Kirk Wallace Johnson. The book is part true crime, part cultural exploration, and it digs into the themes of obsession, beauty, and the lengths people will go to for something they can’t possess. It’s one of those true stories that’s so bizarre, you couldn’t make it up if you tried. In 2009, someone broke into the British Museum of Natural History, stealing hundreds of rare bird skins. He did it all to fuel his obsession with fly-tying for fly-fishing—a hobby very niche, but has a secret society on the dark web. This is for birders, nature-lovers, museum buffs, and true-crime fans alike.
We are doing a mini-series that will break down parts of the book, and to sum it all up will be talking with the author Kirk Wallace Johnson.
Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart for Birds of a Feather Talk Together.
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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75: The Feather Thief Prologue - Quick Listen Prior to Starting The Mini-Series :) Jan 19, 2025

We’re stepping away from our usual routine to dive into something a bit different—The Feather Thief by Kirk Wallace Johnson. This is a story of a museum heist, someone who stole rare bird skins from a museum in order to sell them on the dark web to fly-fisherman.

Two of our hosts, John Bates and Shannon Hackett, are curators at the Field Museum in Chicago, making them perfect guides to unravel this strange and captivating story.

We’d love for you to join us by picking up a copy of the book and reading along. We’ll be offering behind-the-scenes insights into the world of museum work and its bird collections—you won’t want to miss a word.

For those who haven’t had the chance to read it yet, we thought we’d share the prologue, which sets the stage for the book’s, dark, and twisted tale.

The reading of the prologue is the only part of the book that we’ll be reading aloud in this mini-series. Our regular lineup—John, Shannon, Amanda, and RJ —will be back for the rest of the episodes. And we’ll be joined by ornithologist and fly-tier Jason Weckstein for a few chats along the way. Then we’ll cap it all off with an interview with the author himself, Kirk Wallace Johnson.

So, sit back, relax, grab your binoculars, and enjoy the prologue!

74: John Returns From The Falklands, Gentoo Penguins, What Do Birds Do In The Rain? Jan 13, 2025

John is back from his trip to the Falkland Islands to study Gentoo Penguins, so we ask him all about his trip. We also answer a mailbag question on what birds do in the rain when it storms.
Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart for Birds of a Feather Talk Together.
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73: Willard's Sooty Boubou Revisited - A New Species Described Jan 06, 2025

We are kicking it off the new year by revisiting an older episode that we did on the Willard’s Sooty Boubou. This was a bird that John and the team at the Field Museum were responsible for describing as a new species. We are doing a mini-series on the book The Feather Thief in a few weeks, so we wanted to share an episode that highlighted what John and Shannon do at the Field Museum before we kick that off. Bird specimen at The Field Museum led to describing the new species, and John tells us about his trips to Africa to study this new species.
Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart for Birds of a Feather Talk Together.
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72: The Archaeopteryx at the Field Museum + An Exciting Announcement Dec 30, 2024

We're still down for the holidays but are sharing a segment that we did on the Archaeopteryx at The Field Museum. Birds are the only group of dinosaurs that survived when an asteroid hit the Earth 66 million years ago. A fossil called Archaeopteryx, with feathers, hollow bones, clawed wings, tiny teeth, and a long tail, is the earliest known dinosaur that also qualifies as a bird, and is on display at the Field Museum where two of our hosts John and Shannon work.
Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart for Birds of a Feather Talk Together.
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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71: Christmas Bird Count, The Feather Thief Question, An Exciting Announcement! Dec 23, 2024

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! This week we revisit a segment on the Christmas Bird Count. We also answer a question on the book the Feather Thief. We also finish it off with an exciting announcment for 2025 (spoiler, we are going to do a mini-series all about The Feather Thief!)
Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart for Birds of a Feather Talk Together.
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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70: Holiday Wrap-Up - What We've Learned Dec 16, 2024

We talk about what the four of us have learned so far on our podcast journey. It's a fun reflection from RJ, Shannon, John, and Amanda. Enjoy!
Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart for Birds of a Feather Talk Together.
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69: John's Trip to the Falkland Islands, also we talk about Bird Flu Dec 09, 2024

This week's episode is a little different. John is going on a trip to the Falkland Islands to study Gentoo Penguins, so we ask him all about his upcoming trip. We end up discussing avian influenza a bit as well, as Bird Flu is a major concern for the trip.
Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart for Birds of a Feather Talk Together.
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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68: The Rusty Blackbird - Dramatic population decline, also a question on 'The Big Year' Dec 02, 2024

This week we discuss the Rusty Blackbird. Rusty Blackbird is one of North America’s most rapidly declining species. The population has dropped between 85-99 percent over the past forty years, and Amanda and RJ saw one a few weeks ago so we decided to talk about them. Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart for Birds of a Feather Talk Together.
We also answer a mailbag question on The Big Year (the movie with Owen Wilson, Steve Martin, and Jack Black, and also the book by Mark Obmascik.)
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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67: Wild Turkey Revisited - with Jacob Drucker Nov 25, 2024

We revisit an old episode on the Wild Turkey this week. These birds are a major conservation success story. We also talk about John seeing a turkey in the Democratic Republic of Congo, how turkeys got their name, and learn all about their magnificent feathers. Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart for Birds of a Feather Talk Together.
This week we are also joined by Jacob Drucker. Jacob Drucker is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Chicago and the Field Museum studying how birds interact with tropical climates over ecological and evolutionary time. We also did a couple episodes on Hawaiian Honeycreepers with Jacob, please go back and check those out if you haven't heard them yet.
Email us your questions at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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66: White-throated Sparrow Nov 18, 2024

Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart as we discuss the White-throated sparrow. We talk about sparrows in general, and how to differentiate them based on behavior and not just their appearance. We also talk about how they have been shrinking in size over the last 50 years, and how the specimen collection at the Field Museum have helped determine that. We also talk about their different head-types, and mating preferences between the two head types.

We also answer a mailbag question from a listener in the U.K. on vultures.
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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65: Wrentits with Kevin Burns Nov 11, 2024

This week we discuss the wrentit with Kevin Burns! You've probably heard this bird's call in many movies and tv shows, but only seen it if you've been to California or Oregon. They are one of the most sedentary birds in North America, but somehow their closes relatives are in Asia. Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart in Birds of a Feather Talk Together!
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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64: Inti Tanager with Kevin Burns - Also known as the 'Kill Bill' Tanager Nov 04, 2024

Kevin Burns joins us again to discuss the Inti Tanager. Kevin is an ornithologist and professor of biology at San Diego State University and goes way back with Shannon and John. Kevin tells us all about the story of this bird, from the sighting in the early 2000’s in Peru, to it finally being described as a species 20 years later. The bird earned the nickname the 'Kill Bill Tanager' due to its bright yellow feathers and black brow which resembled Uma Thurman’s outfit in the movie. We’re not quite sure how we feel about the nickname, but hopefully that paints a picture for you.

We also answer a question on a leucitic red-tailed hawk that was seen in Michigan.
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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63: Kagu - Ghosts of the Forest Oct 28, 2024

This super unique bird from New Caledonia has been isolated on an island in the Pacific for so long, but somehow its closest relative is the Sunbittern in Central and South America. Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart as we discuss the Kagu.
We also answer a question on feathers. Here is the organization that we were referencing in the feather question: https://libertywildlife.org/conservation-services/non-eagle-feather-repository-2/
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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62: The Slow Birding Journal with Joan E. Strassmann Oct 21, 2024

We interview evolutionary biologist and the author of 'Slow Birding' Joan E. Strassmann. Joan has a new book released on October 22nd and is called 'The Slow Birding Journal'. It is a unique companion for bird enthusiasts seeking a deeper connection with the avian world around them. The journal encourages a slow, mindful approach to birding, celebrating the beauty and diversity of birds wherever you find them. We talk to Joan all about her new book, and get an interesting backstory on her first book as well.
Join our usual hosts John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart as they interview Joan.
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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61: Roseate Spoonbill Revisited - The Color Pink Oct 14, 2024

We are revisiting an older episode on Roseate Spoonbills for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Roseate Spoonbills are pink, and we talk all about how they get their pink color and where that comes from (hint - it may come from their diet.) We also answer a question on Great Blue Herons.
Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart on Birds of a Feather Talk Together.
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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60: Double-crested Cormorant, drying their wings, swimming with heavy bones Oct 07, 2024

This week we talk about the double-crested cormorant. We also answer a question on swans. Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart for Birds of a Feather Talk Together this week.
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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59: Darwin's Finches (they're tanagers!) with Kevin Burns Sep 30, 2024

This week’s episode with Kevin Burns is on Darwin’s Finches. Kevin and Shannon’s research reclassified Darwin’s Finches as Tanagers, so we hear all about what the process was like, and learn more about Darwin’s Finches in this week’s episode. Kevin, an ornithologist and professor of biology at San Diego State University, goes way back with Shannon and John, and led the research that reclassified what exactly a tanager is.
John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, Amanda Marquart and Kevin Burns are Birds of a Feather Talk Together this week. Enjoy!
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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58: Tanagers with Kevin Burns Sep 23, 2024

This week we talk to Kevin Burns about Tanagers. Kevin, an ornithologist and professor of biology at San Diego State University, goes way back with Shannon and John, and led the research that reclassified what exactly a tanager is and what it isn’t. Many birds which have the common name Tanager, such as the scarlet tanager or western tanager, aren’t actually tanagers, and birds like Darwin’s finches actually are tanagers. Many of you might already know this, but we get to talk to Kevin about what exactly went into this research, and what that process was like. We also hear some fun stories about Kevin, John, and Shannon in the field studying birds, and talk about how impressive many of the different tanagers are.
We also answer a question on fall migration.
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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Teaser: We Are Down This Week - Exciting Episodes On The Horizon! Sep 16, 2024

Howdy everyone! We are down this week but will be back next week with some new very exciting episodes. Take a listen for the full breakdown! Thanks for your patience and support, we'll be back next week and back on schedule with brand new episodes :)

57: Medley - Warblers, European Goldfinches, Cassowaries, Horse Flies, Oh my! Sep 09, 2024

This week we play some highlights from our previous episodes, including some moments with some of our guest. Topics discussed are the Golden-cheeked Warbler with Jack Wildlife, the Southern Cassowary with Wes Larson, the Christmas Bird Count with our host John Bates, Jack Wildlife is back to tell us about a camera that he gifted a young birder, Maureen Turcatel tells us about bugs, and European Goldfinches with Louise Bodt. John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart are hosting as always :)
Next week we'll be back with our regular scheduled programming, but thought you'd enjoy some of these highlights in case you want to go back and listen to the full episodes!
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56: Alpine Accentor - Let's talk about bird sex high in the mountains Sep 02, 2024

This Eurasian bird is more extreme than it looks, and it may not be for what you are expecting. This bird puts the 'bird' in birds and the bees. Join us this week when we talk about the very sexual Alpine Accentor.
John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart discuss the Alpine Accentor in this week's episode.
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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55: Peg-billed Finch - Elusive bird from Costa Rica, Shannon and John's experience with them Aug 26, 2024

A bird that not very many people have seen in the wild, but it turns out that Shannon and John have seen a lot of them. They are native to Costa Rica, and only come out when the bamboo is flowering - which is not very often. Hear all about Shannon and John's trip to Costa Rica and learn more about these amazing little birds.
We also answer a listener question on birds and government spies.
John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart discuss the Peg-billed Finch in this week's episode.
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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54: Black-billed Magpie - Fighting cats, bird funerals, and interactions with humans Aug 19, 2024

Black-billed magpies are super cool! Fun new episode that you won't want to miss.
John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart discuss the Black-billed Magpie in this week's episode.
We also answer a listener question on Wombat poop and bird poop.
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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53: Greater Roadrunner - Adaptations to Live In the Desert, How Fast Are They? Aug 12, 2024

You might know him from the cartoon - but there's a lot more to the Greater Roadrunner than just saying beep beep. We talk all about the adaptations these speedy birds have made to be able to live in the desert, some interesting facts from the actual cartoon, as well as answer a mailbag question on the book The Feather Thief. John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart discuss the Greater Roadrunner in this week's episode.
Here is the link to the other podcast that Shannon was on that we referenced in the episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/e32-chickadee/id1681354028?i=1000663586496
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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52: Burrowing Owls with Aiyana Reissman from Living Coast Discovery Center Aug 05, 2024

Join us this week to talk about Burrowing Owls. These super cool and tiny owls live in burrows in the ground. Hear why, and all about their super unique behavior in this week's episode. Our usual hosts John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart are joined by Aiyana Reissman to talk Burrowing Owls. Aiyana is the Animal Care Manager at the Living Coast Discovery Center in San Diego, California and has a ton of experience with these owls.
In addition to the burrowing owls, we also get deep into some other topics like bird flu and changing big tech to get birds into the algorithm instead of cats :)
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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51: Multiple Topics: Belted Kingfisher Family, CT Scanning Birds, Bird Dialect, and A Movie About Cowbirds? Jul 29, 2024

This week a little different than our usual episodes. Instead of talking about a single bird species, we each brought a different topic to the table to talk about. We talked about baby belted Kingfishers, CT scanning birds, different bird dialects, and a movie idea where a brown-headed cowbird leaves an egg in a human’s bassinet. What genre would that movie be? Listen to find out! Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart for this week's episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together.
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Enjoy!

50: Northern Flicker - Hybridization, CTE From Banging Head? Jul 22, 2024

This week we are talking about the Northern Flicker. We talk about the red-shafted and yellow-shafted flickers in different parts of the continent, and how they can hybridize. We also talk about whether or not woodpeckers get CTE from banging their heads while pecking. We answer a mailbag question on the white throated sparrow changing its call. Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart discussing the Northern Flicker!
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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49: Giant Hummingbird - New Study! Jul 15, 2024

This week’s episode is about the Giant Hummingbird. A recent study led by Jessie Williamson led to some groundbreaking discoveries about the Giant Hummingbird, including that there are actually two different species, one which has the longest migration of any hummingbird in the world. This amazing study, which included putting tiny backpacks on hummingbirds to track their movement, changed what we knew about Giant Hummingbirds.

48: Ospreys with Jack Wildlife (Jack Turner) - Memes, Photography, Also Golden-Cheeked Warbler Jul 08, 2024

Jack Turner AKA Jack Wildlife joins us to talk about Ospreys. Jack lives near the Chesapeake Bay, home to the most Osprey in the world. If you aren’t familiar with Jack Wildlife, he runs a popular birding meme account, and he’s also an accomplished wildlife photographer, tour guide, and Environmental Scientist.
This episode is a ton of fun. We also talk about Jack's trip to Austin, Texas to see the endangered golden-cheeked warbler.
Jack joined John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart for another episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together.

There was an exciting story on Osprey in The America's with Tom Hanks recently, hope this helps tell that story as well!
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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Happy Fourth of July! - Teaser for Upcoming Episodes + Spreading the joy of birds Jul 01, 2024

We'll be down this week for the Fourth of July - but back next week. Upcoming episodes on Osprey, Giant Hummingbird, and Northern Flicker.
We have a few asks to spread the joy of birding over the Fourth of July. Listen to hear more.
Also here is a link to when John was on Ologies with Alie Ward: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/oology-eggs-with-john-bates/id1278815517?i=1000417763781

47: Light-footed Ridgway's Rail with Aiyana Reissman from Living Coast Discovery Center Jun 24, 2024

We talk about the endangered Light-footed Ridgway's Rail this week with guest Aiyana Reissman. Aiyana is the Animal Care Manager at the Living Coast Discovery Center in San Diego, California. She oversees the care for 25+ species of rescued bird native to the area along with the propagation programs for the endangered Light Footed Ridgway’s Rails.

Living Coast Discovery Center is the only facility in the world where the Light-footed Ridgway's Rail can be viewed and have had great success with the release program to boost the populations in Southern California over the last few years.
Aiyana joined John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart for another episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together.
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
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46: Cicadas with Maureen Turcatel - impact on birds, blue-eyed cicada, and fungus! Jun 17, 2024

This week is a little different as we aren't discussing a bird, but rather the cicada phenomenon happening in Illinois right now. Maureen Turcatel of the Field Museum joins us to talk about the two different broods of cicadas both happening at the same time (the 13 year cicada and the 17 year cicada). We talk about how this is impacting birds, the rare blue-eyed cicada, and also the fungus that is making cicadas hyper-sexual.
Maureen is an insect taxonomist and systematist, especially interested in the diversity and phylogeny of horse flies. Her research focuses on using museum specimens to perform revisionary work on horse flies. She is the collections manager of all insects at the Field Museum, so she was happy to jump on and answer all of our cicada questions, as well as talk about horseflies.
Maureen joined John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart for another episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together.
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com

There was a cool segment on cicadas in the tv show The Americas with Tom Hanks, we hope this helps tell that story too!

Make sure to follow us on instagram and tik tok as well!!

45: Ruby-Throated Hummingbird - Also a question on feather iridescence and/or mutation Jun 10, 2024

Somehow it has taken us 45 episodes to get to our first hummingbird - but it's finally here! We have a ton of fun talking about the ruby-throated hummingbird today. John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart are all here for our hummingbird discussion. Enjoy!
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Make sure to follow us on instagram and tik tok as well!!

44: House Wren, we also talk about The Archaeopteryx at the Field Museum Jun 03, 2024

This week we talk about the house wren, but first we talk a little bit about the newest addition to the Field Museum: The Archaeopteryx. A fossil called Archaeopteryx, with feathers, hollow bones, clawed wings, fifty tiny teeth, and a long bony tail, is the earliest known dinosaur that also qualifies as a bird.
The Chicago Archaeopteryx has the most complete skull of any Archaeopteryx fossil in the world.
We then talk about the House Wren - it's a super fun episode that you'll enjoy. House Wren are so amazing, it was so much fun to learn all about them.
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com

43: Kirtland's Warbler - Back From the Endangered Species List, Connection to Leopold and Loeb? May 27, 2024

We talk about a bird that was majorly affected by the parasitic brown-headed cowbird so much that it was on the endangered species list for nearly 50 years. One of the rarest songbirds in North America, the Kirtland’s Warbler migrates back and forth from the Bahamas to Michigan every year. We also learn that this bird was studied back in the 1920’s by Nathan Leopold, one half of the murdering crime pair Leopold and Loeb.
Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart as we discuss the Kirtland's Warbler.

We kick it off talking about the Whooping Crane that was spotted in the northern Chicago suburbs. We also answer a mailbag question on using fake calls when looking for birds.
Please follow our instagram @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com

42: Brown-Headed Cowbird - Laying eggs in someone else's nest May 20, 2024

Brown-headed cowbirds don't build nests - instead they sneak into other nests and lay their eggs and let other birds raise their young for them. Many consider them 'mafia' birds, as they will destroy another bird's nest if they aren't raising their young correctly. These parasitic birds will outgrow the other chicks in the nest, its kind of like a horror story! Hear all about these bizarre birds in this awesome episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together. John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart discuss the brown-headed cowbird.
Please follow our instagram @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com

41: Southern Cassowary with Tooth and Claw's Wes Larson May 13, 2024

The host of Tooth and Claw Podcast Wes Larson joins us to talk about the Southern Cassowary. Wes is a wildlife biologist, and hosts a podcast that talks about human wildlife conflict, or extreme wild animal attacks. Wes recently went to Australia and saw Cassowaries in the wild, so we asked him to join us for a full episode on what many people call the most dangerous bird on the planet.
Wes Larson is a wildlife biologist who has studied bears, and has a ton of knowledge on human wildlife conflict. Hear us discuss Southern Cassowaries in this episode with our usual hosts John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart.
Make sure to follow us instagram @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Enjoy!

40: Blackpoll Warbler - Impressive Migration, Also More About Warblers... May 05, 2024

Warbler season is officially here. We talk about the Blackpoll Warbler - the warbler with one of the longest and most impressive migration.
Enjoy!
Please follow our instagram @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com

39: Bald Eagles - Massive Nests, Aerial Cartwheels, and Coming Back From DDT Apr 29, 2024

Bald Eagles are amazing - everyone knows it. We touch on everything from Benjamin Franklin, to how DDT decimated their population and the significant comeback that they've made, to their aerial cartwheel performances. It's a really fascinating episode, and we learn about the 'eagle suit' that Amanda's sister's dog wears so he doesn't get picked up by a bald eagle in his backyard.
Special thanks to photographer Dustin Weidner for suggesting that we do a Bald Eagle episode. Check out his photography on his instagram @chicago.wildlife.photography
If you have a question for us, send it to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Check out our Insta and Tik-Tok for pictures!!
Thanks everyone!

38: Florida Trip - Osprey, Brown Pelican, Shorebirds, and we also talk about the Eclipse Apr 22, 2024

This week's episode is a little different than usual. Instead of discussing one bird, we talk about RJ and Amanda's recent trip to Florida and all of the birds that they saw. RJ and Amanda ask John and Shannon about the Osprey, Brown Pelicans, Cormorants, Black Skimmers, American Oystercatchers, and many more.
We also plead our case for the birds that have reached the Final Four in our Round Robin voting: The Shoebill, American Woodcock, Raven, and Atlantic Puffin.
Enjoy!

37: European Roller - Migration Across the Sahara, Vomiting for Self-Defense Apr 08, 2024

John and Shannon's son moved to Slovakia to play professional hockey - so we discuss a bird native to that area: The European Roller. These birds are super cool and so much fun to learn about. From their interesting leapfrogging migration pattern to Africa, to the self-defense method that many of their chicks use: vomiting. Make sure to google these birds because their color is absolutely magnificent.
We also answer a mailbag question about bald eagles, and set up for a full episode that we'll do on bald eagles in a few weeks.
We finish out the episode with the next round of our Round Robin tournament and vote on the third round of birds from our previous episodes.
It's our regular hosts John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, Amanda Marquart, and we're also joined by Louise Bodt again this week.
Please follow our instagram @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com

36: The Brown Creeper, How Animals Evolved to Fly, and Round 2 of Round Robin Voting! Apr 01, 2024

This week we talk about one of Shannon’s favorite birds: The Brown Creeper. The way these tiny little birds climb all over trees, and look like a piece of bark, is truly amazing, and adorable.
We also answer a mailbag question about evolution, and when animals learned how to fly.
We finish out the episode with the next round of our Round Robin tournament and vote on the second round of birds from our previous episodes.
It's our regular hosts John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, Amanda Marquart, and we're also joined by Louise Bodt again this week.
Please follow our instagram @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com

35: European Starlings with Louise Bodt + Round Robin Tourney First Round Voting :) Mar 25, 2024

This week we talk to Louise Bodt about the European Starlings. Louise Bodt is a PhD candidate at the University of Chicago and the Field Museum using introduced birds to study rapid evolutionary change. Prior to joining the Field Museum birds lab, she worked as a science educator in NYC where she got her MS in biology investigating genetics of invasive European starlings.
We also kick off our Round Robin Tournament and vote on our first round. It's a lot of fun and we were laughing the whole time. We want our listeners to vote as well, we'll post info on our Instagram.
Enjoy!
Please follow our instagram @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com

34: European Goldfinches with Louise Bodt - European birds introduced in the U.S. Mar 18, 2024

This week we talk to Louise Bodt about the European Goldfinch. Although they are native to Europe, there is actually a population living in Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. Louise tells us how they got there, other examples of them being introduced, and much more. Louise Bodt is a PhD candidate at the University of Chicago and the Field Museum using introduced birds to study rapid evolutionary change. Prior to joining the Field Museum birds lab, she worked as a science educator in NYC where she got her MS in biology investigating genetics of invasive European starlings. Louise is such an amazing guest, you're going to enjoy this one!!
We actually have another listener question about birds in Trinidad and Tobago, which we talk about at the end of the episode as well.
Enjoy!
Please follow our instagram @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com

33: Tufted Puffins - Shannon's Favorite Puffin Mar 11, 2024

This week Shannon makes her case for why Tufted Puffins are the best. Amanda points out that the tufts look like the hair on the back of Donald Trump's head, which doesn't go over well with Shannon :). It's a blast and a ton of fun discussing the Tufted Puffin. Marky Mutchler joins us again on this one, Marky is a PHD student at the University of Chicago.
We also answer a question about birds in Trinidad and Tobago from one of our listeners.
Enjoy!
Please follow our instagram @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com

32: Common Puffin (Or Atlantic Puffin) - John's Favorite Puffin Mar 04, 2024

A listener wrote in and asked for us to do a puffin episode. It turns out that John and Shannon each have a different favorite puffin. This week we'll talk about John's favorite: the Common Puffin (or Atlantic Puffin.) Next week we'll talk about the Tufted Puffin. Puffins are so cool, you'll enjoy this one and next week's as well! Marky Mutchler joins us again this week as well. Enjoy!!
Please follow our instagram @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com

31: Limpkins Interview Part 2 with Marky Mutchler Feb 26, 2024

Part 2 of our interview Marky Mutchler to talk about Limpkins. Marky is a PHD student at the University of Chicago, and is studying limpkins. Limpkins have been seen outside of their range, as far north as Chicago and even Nova Scotia. One limpkin was found dead in Illinois recently, and the dead bird was brought to the Field Museum for research, so we talk to Marky, John, and Shannon to see what they’ve learned.
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Enjoy!

30: Limpkins Interview Part 1 with Marky Mutchler Feb 19, 2024

We interview Marky Mutchler this week and talk about Limpkins. Marky is a PHD student at the University of Chicago, and is studying limpkins. If you’re not familiar, Limpkins are a bird that is native to South America and their range covers Florida as well. They’ve been expanding northwards lately, and there were many citing in Illinois this summer. Marky tells us about them being spotted as far north as Nova Scotia as well. Will they be able to survive winters? How are they finding food in these new locations? Marky talks us through many of the theories and evidence as well. One of the limpkins was found dead in Illinois recently, and the dead bird was brought to the Field Museum for research, so we talk to Marky, John, and Shannon to see what they’ve learned.
Check out pictures of the bird specimen on our instagram @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Enjoy!

29: Flame Bowerbird - Building A Bower and Attracting A Mate Feb 12, 2024

Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart as we talk about flame bowerbirds. John and Shannon provide a lot of really fascinating information on these incredible birds, from how they can manipulate the size of their pupils, how they use blue objects to attract a mate, and why we don’t know more about these birds in general.
Email us your questions at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Follow us on Instagram for pictures of the birds we discuss, specimen, and more info! @birds_of_a_feather_podcast

28: Blue Jays - Acorns and Oak Trees Feb 05, 2024

On this week's episode we discuss Blue Jays. Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart as we talk all about Blue Jays. We talk about how bird flu changed their population, their inconsistent migration, and their relationship with acorns and oak trees. We kick off the episode talking about Sharp-Tailed Grouse in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
Check out pictures of the bird specimen on our instagram @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Enjoy!

27: Birds of a Feather Talk Together Backstory - Our Origin Story Jan 29, 2024

This week we are doing something a little different - we are telling you our origin story. With so many episodes out on different birds, we wanted to give our listeners an explanation of who we are, how we got together, and why we are making this podcast. Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart in our Birds of a Feather Talk Together origin story.
Enjoy!

26: Mallard Duck - We Also Talk About Christmas Bird Count Jan 22, 2024

John talks about the Christmas Bird Count, and then we talk all about the Mallard Duck. From their sexual dimorphism (for part of the year), to their matching speculum stripes, to how they differ from other ducks. Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart in our most recent episode.
Questions? Reach out to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Thanks!

25: Puteketeke or Great Crested Grebe - Thanks John Oliver for Making This 'Bird of the Century' Jan 15, 2024

We kick off the new year talking about the Puteketeke or the Great Crested Grebe. We were following closely while John Oliver's campaign to make this New Zealand's bird of the century, and are so excited to talk about this super cool bird. John Oliver used his show 'Last Week Tonight' to raise awareness about these birds, and in turn raised a ton of awareness about birds in general, particularly in New Zealand. We talk about the Puteketeke's exotic mating dance, to carrying chicks on their back, to whether or not they actually fly? Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart in our most recent episode.
Exciting announcment - we reached 5,000 downloads! Thank you listeners!
Questions? Reach out to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Thanks!

24: The Hoatzin - A Link To The Dinosaurs? Dec 18, 2023

These birds have claws on their wings when they are young, and may be a link back to the dinosaurs. Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, Amanda Marquart, and our guest Jacob Drucker to talk about the Hoatzin. This is a fun episode where we talk about these strange, unique, and downright fascinating birds.
Email us your questions at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Follow us on Instagram for pictures of the birds we discuss, specimen, and more info! @birds_of_a_feather_podcast

23: Rock Pigeons (Rock Doves) - You see them everywhere in the city, but did you know how amazing they are? Dec 11, 2023

Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, Amanda Marquart, and our guest Jacob Drucker to talk about Rock Pigeons. One of our listeners wrote in and asked us to do an episode on Pigeons, and what a great idea that was! From their navigational abilities, to the impact that humans have had on their evolution, to their color variation, we cover so many interesting topics. You'll gain a new appreciation for these birds, and won't ever look at them the same way.
Email us your questions at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Follow us on Instagram for pictures of the birds we discuss, specimen, and more info! @birds_of_a_feather_podcast

22: Hawaiian Honeycreepers with Jacob Drucker - Part 2 Dec 04, 2023

Part 2 of John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart interviewing Jacob Drucker to discuss Hawaiian Honeycreepers.
Jacob Drucker is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Chicago and the Field Museum studying how birds interact with tropical climates over ecological and evolutionary time. He has spent over a year in Hawaii working with the Kauai Forest Bird Recovery Project, as a regular volunteer with the Department of Land and Natural Resources on the Big Island, and as a guide for Victor Emmanuel Nature Tours. His photos have been featured in the American Birding Association’s field guide to Birds of Hawaii.
This is part 2 of a 2-part episode.
Email us your questions at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Follow us on Instagram for pictures of the birds we discuss, specimen, and more info! @birds_of_a_feather_podcast

21: Hawaiian Honeycreepers with Jacob Drucker - Part 1 Nov 27, 2023

John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart interview Jacob Drucker this week to discuss Hawaiian Honeycreepers.
Jacob Drucker is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Chicago and the Field Museum studying how birds interact with tropical climates over ecological and evolutionary time. He has spent over a year in Hawaii working with the Kauai Forest Bird Recovery Project, as a regular volunteer with the Department of Land and Natural Resources on the Big Island, and as a guide for Victor Emmanuel Nature Tours. His photos have been featured in the American Birding Association’s field guide to Birds of Hawaii.
This is part 1 of a 2-part episode. Next week we will release the second part of this interview.
Email us your questions at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Follow us on Instagram for pictures of the birds we discuss, specimen, and more info! @birds_of_a_feather_podcast

20: Wild Turkey - Conservation success, magnificent feathers, sexual dimorphism Nov 20, 2023

We have a Thanksgiving special this week as we discuss the Wild Turkey. These birds are a major conservation success story, hear all about it in this weeks episode. We also talk about John seeing a turkey in the Democratic Republic of Congo, how turkeys got their name, and learn all about their magnificent feathers. Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart for Birds of a Feather Talk Together.
This week we are also joined by Jacob Drucker. Jacob Drucker is a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Chicago and the Field Museum studying how birds interact with tropical climates over ecological and evolutionary time. Next week we will talk Hawaiian Honeycreepers with Jacob, but this week we invited him to talk turkey with us for Thanksgiving.
Email us your questions at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Follow us on Instagram for pictures of the birds we discuss, specimen, and more info! @birds_of_a_feather_podcast

Teaser: Sticker Giveaway + Update on New Episodes Nov 09, 2023

New episodes coming soon. In the meantime, who wants free stickers?
We will announce rules to the sticker giveaway on our Instagram on Monday. Follow us @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Thanks!!
Birds of a Feather Talk Together Podcast
One of the best new podcasts available. Also called the best bird podcast.

19: Ravens - How Smart Are Birds? Using Tools and Imitating Calls Oct 30, 2023

Happy Halloween! Today we cover one of the smartest birds that also happens to be associated with death and overall spookiness: The Raven. They know how to use tools, can impersonate other birds, and possibly could even say the word "Nevermore"... Hear all about Ravens in this week's episode. John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart discuss Ravens.
Email us your questions at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Follow us on Instagram for pictures of the birds we discuss, specimen, and more info! @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
One of the best new podcasts available. Also called the best bird podcast.

18: The Shoebill - A Large Bird With An Even Larger Bill - Also A Beginners Guide To Birding Oct 23, 2023

This bird has been a viral sensation lately: The Shoebill! Hear John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart discuss this wildly unique African bird. Its gigantic shoe-shaped bill and its stoic demeanor have made this bird ripe for folklore. Hear what it was like for John to see a Shoebill in the wild, and learn more about these magnificent (and a little bit spooky) birds.
We also answer a listener question and offer advice for people looking to get into birding for the first time.
Email us your questions at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Follow us on Instagram for pictures of the birds we discuss, specimen, and more info! @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
One of the best new podcasts available. Also called the best bird podcast.

17: Bloodsucking Birds! Vampire Finches, Oxpeckers, and Egyptian Plovers - Oh my! Oct 09, 2023

Spooky season is officially here, as we get together to talk about Bloodsucking Birds. There is an event at The Field Museum in Chicago later this month that is about bloodsuckers of all kinds, so we decided to release an episode all about bloodsucking birds. Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart as we discuss Vampire Finches, Oxpeckers, and the myth that Flamingos feed blood to their young.
We also answer a question from one of our listeners on pigeons.
Email us your questions at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Follow us in Instagram for pictures of the birds, specimen, and more info! @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Enjoy!!!!
One of the best new podcasts available. Also called the best bird podcast.

16: Bird Collisions in Chicago - Nearly 1,000 Birds Die In A Single Night Oct 09, 2023

You've probably seen it on the news, but hear what John and Shannon have to say about the recent migration collision in Chicago. Last week Chicago had one of the largest migration nights ever, totaling what could have been 1 million birds in a single night. Unfortunately, this resulted in almost 1,000 birds colliding with buildings and dying. Hear about what caused this, what we can do to stop it from happening, and where building collisions ranks among other mass-casualties of birds (do you think its more or less than deaths from cats?)
Email us your questions at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Follow us in Instagram for pictures of the birds, specimen, and more info! @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Enjoy!!!!

15: Ring-Billed Gull - Not A Seagull! Also, That Diet is Trash... Sep 23, 2023

This week we discuss the Ring-Billed Gull and what differentiates it from other gulls. It's been a ton of fun to learn more about common birds, and then going back after listening/recording and seeing these common birds in a new way. You'll learn all about the Ring-Billed Gulls in this episode, as John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart discuss these gulls. We also answer a mailbag question about traveling specifically to see birds, and species counting as well. (One thing to note, we recorded this episode a few weeks ago, and mention fall migration just getting started. Once this episode is released, fall migration is in full effect.)
Email us your questions at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Follow us in Instagram for pictures of the birds, specimen, and more info! @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Enjoy!!!!
One of the best new podcasts available. Also called the best bird podcast.

14: Willard's Sooty Boubou - A New Species Discovered; John and The Field Museum's Involvement Sep 11, 2023

This is one of our favorite episodes to date. The Willard's Sooty Boubou is a bird that lives in the Albertine Rift in Africa at a very specific elevation. John and his team at the Field Museum are actually responsible for determining that this bird is in fact its own unique species. We talk about what that process was like, what birding in Uganda, Rwanda, and The Democratic Republic of Congo was like, which included chimps pulling birds out of nets, and the threat of local militia groups. Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart as we discuss the Willard's Sooty Boubou. Enjoy!
To see images of the Willard's Sooty Boubou follow us on Instagram @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Email us your questions at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com

13: Killdeer - The 'Broken Wing' Display, Also a Discussion on Wildfire Smoke Impacting Birds Sep 04, 2023

This week we discuss the Killdeer. These shorebirds (that aren't always near the shore) will put on a display where they pretend like they are injured to lure predators away from their eggs. Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart as we discuss the Killdeer. We also follow up on a previous discussion about how smoke and wildfires impact birds. We talk about a study in California called "Project Phoenix" where birders can help participate in studying the impact that wildfire smoke has on birds.
Here is a link to participate in the study. Please note the study is only in the state of California, so you have to be in California to participate: https://www.project-phoenix-investigating-bird-responses-to-smoke.org/
Reach out to us at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com and follow us on Instagram @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Please spread the word! We are still new and trying to spread the word about our podcast. We are trying to reach birders of all levels, and hope to provide fun info for experts and beginners alike.
Thanks!
One of the best new podcasts available. Also called the best bird podcast.

12: Roseate Spoonbill - The Color Pink, Birds Going Bald Aug 28, 2023

With the recent sightings of the Roseate Spoonbill in Green Bay, Wisconsin we thought it would be a good time to discuss these amazing birds. John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart talk what gives them their bright pink color, why they have a receding hairline, and what they are doing so far up north. We also discuss briefly the Limpkin that has been seen up in the Chicago area, and answer a question from one of our listeners. The listener Dustin Weidner is a photographer in Chicago, and reached out to us on Instagram with a question about the Great Blue Heron. It feels good to be back, enjoy!
Link to scans website: https://www.floridamuseum.ufl.edu/overt/
Reach out to us at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com and follow us on Instagram @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Thanks!

11: Oilbirds - Using Echolocation and Living in Caves Jul 31, 2023

What lives in caves, uses echolocation to navigate through the air, and is nocturnal? Oilbirds! These birds are so interesting, and no they are not bats. John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart discuss the Oilbird. This is a super wild one, so grab your night-vision binoculars and join us to learn more about the Oilbird.
We also answer a question about hummingbird nests. You can send us your questions at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Follow us on Instagram to see pictures of Oilbird specimen from the Field Museum at @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
We'll be off for a couple weeks, but will be returning in mid-August with some brand new episodes.
Thanks for listening!

10: Northern Cardinal - What Causes That Bright Red Color? Is This Your State Bird? Jul 24, 2023

This week we discuss a bird that is common in most of the US: The Northern Cardinal. The state bird in 7 states, this bird wasn't always as widespread as it is today. Learn what has led to their increased distribution, and also what gives the males that bright red color. John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart discuss The Northern Cardinal. Like all of our episodes, this is great for people who are brand new to birding, or expert level. Please share with someone who you think would enjoy!
Email us at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Follow us on instagram for pictures of the birds that we discuss: @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Thanks for listening!!!

9: Great Horned Owl - An Elusive Predator! Also, What Is A Species? Jul 17, 2023

We all know the Great Horned Owl, you can close your eyes and picture it. Hear what experts John Bates and Shannon Hackett have to say about these amazing birds as they discuss them with RJ and Amanda. Although beautiful and majestic, these birds are vicious predators. We also answer one of our listener questions about what a species is, and why that matters. This opens up some really interesting discussion. Enjoy!
Email us at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Follow us on instagram for pictures of the birds that we discuss: @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Thanks for listening!!!

8: Purple Martin - Living in Man-Made Homes + A Killer Grackle Jul 10, 2023

John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart discuss the Purple Martin. These birds live almost entirely in man-made structures in the Eastern US, listen to learn more. We also discuss what impact fireworks have on birds, and what the recent smoke across the US means for birds. After that, we read a mailbag question about a Grackle that has been killing other birds in the suburbs. It's a jam-packed episode - our first since the 4th of July. Enjoy!
Follow us in instagram @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Send us your questions podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Thanks for listening!!

7: Mailbag + Teaser Jun 27, 2023

We have a shorter episode this week as we dive into a few of our listener mailbag questions. We talk about Red Knots on Sanibel Island, Florida. We'll be back after the Fourth of July with some more full episodes. Check out our instagram @birds_of_a_feather_podcast for more updates. We'll post an episode there of when John was on Ologies with Alie Ward.
If you have any questions for us, please send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Everyone have a happy Fourth of July!

6: Frigatebird, The Gular Pouch, and Flying High For Fun? Jun 19, 2023

On this week's episode we discuss the Frigatebird. John Bates, Shannon Hackett, Amanda Marquart and RJ Pole all talk about the Frigatebird, it's bizarre gular pouch and what is used for, and whether or not birds fly 'for fun'. (Spoiler alert, we think they do!) We also answer a mailbag question about the "Owl Theory" from the true crime documentary The Staircase. Hear what two bird experts think and owl is capable of! You won't want to miss this fun episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together.
Send us your mailbag questions at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com
Follow us on instagram @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Thanks for listening! Please share with your friends!

5: Sandhill Cranes - Migration, and Mating for Life (a myth?) Jun 12, 2023

On this week's episode we discuss Sandhill Cranes. Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart as we dive into the world of the beautiful Sandhill Crane. From their migration, to whether or not birds 'mate for life', we get deep into discussion on these magnificent birds. We also cover the Ruby Crowned Kinglet, and answer a mailbag question on Peacocks. Enjoy!
Check out pictures of the bird specimen on our instagram @birds_of_a_feather_podcast
Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com

4: American Woodcock - Dancing and Peenting Jun 05, 2023

John Bates and Shannon Hackett discuss the American Woodcock with their co-hosts RJ Pole and Amanda Marquart. We discuss their mating rituals, and learn some new details about these amazing birds.
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Teaser: Upcoming Episodes! Jun 01, 2023

Coming soon are episodes on The American Woodcock, Sandhill Crane, and Frigatebird. Here's a little preview of what to expect!
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3: Mailbag! Travel, Genetic Mutations and Color May 16, 2023

Join us this week as we answer more questions from our fans. John travels to Uganda, RJ travels to the San Juan Islands, and we learn about genetic mutations on birds and how it can effect their coloring. Birds of a Feather Talk Together is the ultimate bird podcast for expert birders and amateur birders who are just getting started. Join us on our journey!
Do you want your question answered on the pod? Submit your questions at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com and we will answer them on our next episode!
Thank you for listening!

2: Birds of Paradise May 16, 2023

Join us this week as we discuss the Birds of Paradise. From their mating rituals, to their exotic dancing, to a bird specimen that may have been found by Alfred Russel Wallace himself. John and Shannon's knowledge of the Birds of Paradise is truly fascinating, as we jump in to learn more.
We love to hear from our fans! Please submit mailbag questions at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com and we'll answer your question on the next episode.
Thank you for listening!

1: Ivory Billed Woodpecker May 16, 2023

Join John Bates and Shannon Hackett as they teach birding enthusiasts RJ and Amanda on their journey to learn more about the Ivory Billed Woodpecker. John and Shannon work at the Chicago Field Museum and manage one of the largest collection of bird specimen in the world. The Ivory Billed may (or may not?) be extinct, but either way John and Shannon have up close and personal access to actual Ivory Billed. Join us to learn more!
Questions? Submit mailbag questions at podcast.birdsofafeather@gmail.com and we'll answer your questions on our next episode!

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