On show #423: The world's most amazing bird songs and a warbler with a tubular tongue. …

On show #422: Three cuckoos and a fearsome Feathered Friend. Plus a visit with Dr. Rufus Towhee. …

On show #421: A Talkin' Birds Exclusive: The Kentucky Birdy. And Don Kroodsma helps us hear bird song the way birds hear it. …

On show #420: Three thrushes and a thrasher. Plus wildlife rehabilitator Stephanie Ellis, and the answer to "Does your birdbath need a lifeguard?" …

On show #419: Earth Day! We talk with Kathleen Rogers, president of the Earth Day Network, and discover nature quotes from Thomas Edison and Groucho Marx. And we meet a bird that loves Golden Retrievers. …

On show #418: We ask the musical question Was Beethoven a birdwatcher? Plus 4 trilled birds, and the one and only Passarella. …

On show #417: Watching birds...on radar — and our resident professor Dr. Rufus Towhee wows us with his Bird Word of the Week. …

On show #416: The Chanticleer of the Ocean. Plus, birding advice from Minnesota and Cape Cod, and a quote from E.B. White. …

On show #415: Wildlife rehabilitator Stephanie Ellis and we meet the beautiful, but gravelly-voiced Xanthochephalus xanthocephalus. …

On show #414: Is feeding birds a good idea? Milliken University's David Horn gives us an answer to that question. And we dig deep (literally) to meet our Featured Feathered Friend. …

On show #413: The return of Dr. Rufus Towhee — Plus good bird nest advice, a bad Rhett Butler impression, and a hidden "surfing" theme. …

On show #412: Project Passenger Pigeon — And owls vs. bats. …

On show #411: The bird that sees more daylight than any other — And our bird feeding expert Mike O'Connor live from Denver. …

On show #410: Swainson's Hawks and Northern Cardinals and climate change expert Eric McNulty. …

On show #409: How birds survive snowstorms — And an unappreciated Feathered Friend. …

On show #408: Birds of Bonaire — plus, binocular advice and Louisiana's comeback bird. …

On show #407: Crows, crows, and more crows — It's a Best of Talkin' Birds show this week with crow expert Kevin McGowan. …

On show #406: Let's Ask Mike--live from Key West. Plus, we meet Bubo virginianus and learn about a very special bird-themed concert. …

On show #405: The Phantom of the North, and the Little Nightbird. Plus, bringing in Carolina Wrens, and waxing poetic about a long lost dove. …

On show #404: Our favorite guest--live in studio. Plus, the Sea Mouse and the Ping-pong Ball Bird. …

On show #402: Do birds have Christmas? A poet from South Dakota provides an answer. And we feature a bird that's really "cute"…but very fierce.…

On show #403: Dovekies, Doves, and Daring Magpies — And a bird that flies backwards...but can it walk?…

On show #401: Birding movie producers Gerry and Christian Lattmann. And the bird behind the plow.…

On show #400: Is winter halfway done?! — And a camouflaged owl causes a Facebook stir.…

On show #399: The amazing Mr. Bassanus, plus, how owls' secrets may make for quieter airplanes; and a December visit to Sand County.…

On show #398: Google your backyard for science — Cornell Lab's Rhiannon Crain tells us about the new Yard Map project.…

On show #397: Golden Eagles---by the hundreds — And a Bay State town says no to plastic bags and cups.…

On show #396: Birding legend Kenn Kaufman joins us live. And BB King helps us reach out to Mississippi.…

On show #395: Time traveling to birding in 1785…and 1772. And more from A Sand County Almanac.…

On show #394: A Mystery Bird...from Pakistan — And a visitor to Rhode Island...from India!…

On show #393: We have the scoop on a new birding movie. Live from America's best bird store!…

On show #392: Cornell Lab's David Bonter and the bird that's conquering America…

On show #391: The Crested Crusher? — Plus, A Sandy County Almanac excerpt, and fall feeding advice…

On show #390: We appreciate Rachel Carson, and the beauty of rain — (but Eugene Schieffelin? Not so much)…

On show #389: Putin trains cranes? And why Guam might not be the best spot for your next vacation.…

On show #388: The Story of the Telltale Tattler — And a bird named after a ribbon.…

On show #387: The Yellow-lored Mustard-foot and a plea to help save our oceans.…

On show #386: Red Crossbills…by the thousands — And a bird that can carry 65 fish at a time!…

On show #385: The Kitty-cam explains it all —And the bird in the pear tree.…

On show #384: Starling sings Mozart — And we take the pledge! (and unveil a new Facebook contest)…

On show #382: A Sand County Almanac comes to life. And, Mockingbirds?! Not in my backyard!…

On show #381: The bird photo that changed Beth Terry's life and our Mystery Bird stumps our callers…

On show #380: That's why they call 'em snipers. And why we should buy Duck Stamps.…

On show #379: That's why they call 'em snipers. And why we should buy Duck Stamps.…

On show #378: A Little Stint and the Bubblegum Bird — And, plastic--killing our oceans and our birds. …

On show #377: Good Night, Mister Meadowlark and who's killing the Condors? …

On show #376: One Bird, 3,000 songs and the amazing journeys of three small shorebirds. …

On show #375: we hear amazing stories and sounds from the Macaulay Library's Mike Webster. …

On show #374: the Royal Heron and why Bambi must go. …

On show #373: three Reasons to love the Yellow Warbler and more about the world's easiest contest! …

On show #372: author, artist, and naturalist Julie Zickefoose joins us to talk about her wonderful new book, "The Bluebird Effect." And we meet the shorebird that nests in trees. …

On show #371: Cornell Lab's Charles Eldermire talks about the lab's amazing webcam views of GB Herons and RT Hawks. Plus, our new photo contest, and an amazing story from the Science Corner. …

On show #370: the amazing Brazilian birder and photographer Edson Endrigo joins us in studio, and we learn about an American birder who was also...a murderer. …

On show #369: we welcome Jon Young, author of the thoughtful, and thought-provoking new book called "What the Robin Knows--How Birds Reveal the Secrets of the Natural World." Plus, our Mystery Bird Contest and the Squeaky Wheel Bird. …

On show #368: Cornell Lab's NestWatch program leader Jason Martin joins us by phone. Plus, we meet a big bird from California and a tiny one from Tennessee. …

On show #367: we meet a bird with a balaclava; we feature America's biggest swallow; and Mike muses on mealworms. …

On show #366: we'll meet a tiny, but feisty, Mystery Bird. And you can win a fabulous feeder from Droll Yankees as we announce our new website! …

On show #365: we meet a Featured Feathered Friend with a bi-color bill; we travel to Texas to meet a Mystery Bird; and we learn more about what's happening to our honeybees. …

On show #364: we'll hear the strange legend of a bird hatched from barnacles. Also today: what's happening to our honeybees. And Mike answers a most unusual question. …

On show #363: we present some "not about birds" topics, some fascinating info about early-arriving hummingbirds, and an iridescent beauty from the Gulf Coast. …

On show #362: Mass Audubon's Wayne Petersen helps identify a bird recorded by a listener in North Carolina. And we meet the bird that gave Alabama its nickname. …

On show #361: we'll hear a mini-essay from "The Poet of Parker River"; we'll learn about the astounding amount of acreage preserved by our 26th president; and we'll feature a bird that's found almost exclusively at airports. …

On show #360: fresh from being portrayed by Angelica Huston in "The Big Year," seabird trip leader Debi Shearwater joins us live in studio. And we meet a bird that looks like...an anvil. …

On show #359: we'll learn about 20th anniversaries for a famous fishing ground and a popular birders gathering; and we'll meet a bird that's a wonderful dancer, but a rotten singer. …

On show #358: we talk to the Cornell Lab's Myoko Chu and see the Great Backyard Bird Count in real time. Plus, a visit to the Science Corner for the real story behind Hitchcock's "The Birds." …

On show #357: we learn why folks are heading to Cape Cod in February; we meet the most northerly shorebird; and we find our Mystery Bird in South Texas. …

On show #356: we learn that Snowy Owls have wandered much farther south than we could have ever imagined. And our man in Minnesota, Al Batt, talks about mid-winter bird song and much more. …

On show #355: we welcome Mass Audubon's John Galluzzo, who recently completed a year of nature walks in all 351 Massachusetts cities and towns. The book will be out soon. Also today, we present a "Let's Ask Mike" segment that we call "Birds as Polar Bears," and a listener from the great state of Ohio solves the Mystery of the Specklebelly. …

On show #354: bird expert Phil Kyle regales us with bird call imitations; Mike O'Connor offers a listener some cold weather advice; and we learn the secret of the swan feather. …

On show #353: Smithsonian Tours' David Clapp joins us as we talk about seabirds and mating owls. And we learn about the perfect gift for the birder on your list (if 10 million dollars fits your budget). …

On show #352: we check out the Snowy Owl explosion; we present a Let's Ask Mike segment entitled "Making home-made suet--just don't do it"; and we find out why Roman Candles and roosting birds just don't mix. …

On show #351: we feature birds as Oreo cookies; owls eating crows; and special guest Monica Engebretson from Born Free U.S.A. …

On show #350: we feature beautiful holiday music along with short poems and readings about birds by Ray and by the great humorist Ogden Nash. …

On show #349: Mike explains why bird seed prices have gone up so much, and whether there's relief in sight. And we get an update on an amazing sexagenarian. (Next week: our special Christmas show.) …

On show #348: we'll respond to a listener's question about the exploding populations of the Eurasian Collared-Dove, and then we'll head down the street to meet an under-appreciated feathered friend. And we'll hear how PVC pipes are killing birds and what's being done to stop it. …

On show #347: field guide author Ted Floyd offers some intriguing ideas about identifying birds; we feature a bird that only Constitution signers could love; and Mike answers a question from a big fan. …

On show #346: you'll have to move fast to catch our Mystery Bird; we call our Let's Ask Mike segment "That squirrel is big...and it has antlers"; and we feature the bird that sounds like an outboard motor. …

On show #345: we find our Featured Feathered Friend over the bounding Maine; Mass Audubon's Wayne Petersen and John Galluzzo talk about the State of the Birds; and Mike helps us figure out if we're overfeeding our bluebirds. …

On show #344: the amazing Acorn Woodpecker; Boston's Emerald Necklace; and more feeding advice from the Birdwatcher's General Store. …

On show #343: University of Wisconsin Avian Biology professor Mark Berres tells us about his new birdsong ID software. Also today, we stump our callers in the Mystery Bird contest; and Mike answers an unusual listener question. …

On show #342: the great Pat Buttram helps us introduce our Featured Feathered Friend, and we welcome special guest Wayne Klockner from The Nature Conservancy. …

On show #341: we'll hear about birds in the wild that are learning to talk; our man Mike (whose book appears in the new movie "The Big Year") helps a listener with grackle issues; and Bob Dylan helps us introduce our Featured Feathered Friend. …

On show #340: a brief review of the movie, "The Big Year"; a Featured Bird that the Brits are trying to deport; and we meet a "Best for Birds" wine producer. …

On show #339: Jessie Barry from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology talks about the new movie "The Big Year"; the success of her Big Day; and the plans to introduce artificial intelligence to birdwatching. …

On show #338: sparrow expert Jim Sweeney joins us in studio; Mike answers a listener's question about (bird)house cleaning; and we visit a coffeehouse to learn about our Featured Feathered Friend. …

On show #337: we learn about "winners" and "losers" in bird populations; Mike helps a listener with a cowbird conundrum; and we offer a Mystery Bird that lives only in California. …

On show #336: a Virginia listener translates from German to ID our Mystery Bird; we feature a tern that doesn't dive for fish; and Mike helps a listener who's "Wonderin' where the woodies are." …

On show #335: today's Mystery Bird lives almost exclusively in the U.S; our Featured Feathered Friend is found out at sea: and Mike's in the backyard for some evening dining with the Cardinal. …

On show #334: we'll explain that "no such thing" comment as the great David Clapp joins us in studio to talk about migration marathons and mysteries. …

On show #333: we offer some info on how birds cope with storms; we talk with Tom McNichol from the amazing Charles River Cleanup Boat; and our man Mike provides an explanation about wrestling mockingbirds. …

On show #332: we revisit the "Kentucky Berdy;" we feature a beautiful bee killer; and Mike helps a backyard birder who has no backyard birds. …

On show #331: we feature the bird with the golden mane; we travel north to find our Mystery Bird; and we talk about a little "accidental birding." …

On show #330: we present an oddly-named Mystery Bird; we feature a bird that's the biggest of its kind; and Mike helps an urban birdwatcher. …

On show #329: we present an oddly-named Mystery Bird; we feature a bird that's the biggest of its kind; and Mike helps an urban birdwatcher. …

On show #328: we feature a bird that lets you know when it's Tea Time; we present a deceptively easy Mystery Bird Contest; and Mike talks about unexpected visitors to a listener's hummingbird feeder. …

On show #327: we feature a bird that's both dull and flashy; Minnesota's Al Batt describes a spectacular rooftop event; and Mike solves a listener's dilemma...with fishing line. …

On show #326: a purplish rock hopper, elusive Illinois orioles, and a Mystery Bird that stumps our callers. …

On show #325: we try to figure out how a European bird made it to Staten Island; "Old Grogglenose" is our Featured Feathered Friend; and we salute a reborn river. …

On show #324: we'll learn how to do a perfect bird imitation--by banging two rocks together. Also today, Mike helps a listener with a nest problem. And we almost stump our callers in our Mystery Bird Contest. …

On show #323: we'll hear the remarkable story of Thomas Jefferson's mockingbird, and we'll present a Mystery Bird that's disappeared from Washington, D.C.--and the rest of the eastern U.S. …

On show #322: we hear a Whip-poor-will, a Bullbat, and a bird that sounds like a squeeze toy. Plus, Mike explains the "exploding mockingbird" phenomenon. …

On show #321: How we can turn our backyards into Certified Wildlife Habitats. …

On Best of Show: The Cutest Bird In The World, and a bird some call "Whiskey Jack." …

On show #320: Cat Stevens (and an unknown vocalist) introduce us to a Featured Feathered Friend; Mike explodes a baby bird myth; and we learn the amazing story of an albatross named Wisdom. …

On show #319: we'll hear some birds we can't see--night migrating thrushes-- as described by author and nocturnal migration expert Ted Floyd. Meanwhile, our Mystery Bird is not impossible to see, but is challenging to find, high in the treetops. …

On show #318: country star Slim Whitman helps us introduce a Featured Feathered Friend; a hawk pretending to be a vulture is our Mystery Bird; and we learn how your Golden Retriever can be a bird's best friend. …

On show #317: we welcome Birder's Exchange Director Betty Petersen in studio; we learn about the bird that nailed a spy; and we present our exclusive story of the real James Bond. …

On show #315: we get an Earth Day preview from Kathleen Rogers, president of the Earth Day Network. Also today, the Lone Ranger learns something surprising about his faithful friend Tonto. And we present a Mystery Bird that hails from Argentina. …

On show #316: our roving reporter Laura Kammermeier reports on her TV show filming in Ecuador; we present a Let's Ask Mike segment called "stop me before I feed again;" and we meet the bird that walks under water. …

On show #314: we hear from a bird whose call sounds like water being hosed into a plastic bucket; we get some advice for attracting bluebirds; and we take a "tour" of Talkin' Birds World Headquarters. …

On show #313: we welcome the great bird artist Jonathan Alderfer from National Geographic; we get shooed off a farm in Tennessee; and we head way out west to find today's Mystery Bird. …

On show #312: we meet the migration champion of the world; we call our Let's Ask Mike segment "Eating crow...but not for lunch;" and Laura Kammermeier regales us about her adventure and TV show in Ecuador. …

On show #311: we find out how the Veery, and our Mystery Bird, got their names; Mike helps a listener with her "devilish" finches; and we offer three examples of why birds and sports don't mix. …

On show #310: we head way down south to find our Mystery Bird; a reddish raptor defends his patriotism; and Mike holds forth on "safflower power." …

On show #309: an update on Hummingbird spring migration; a feature on the "butterbird;" and a Let's Ask Mike segment we call "Steeling your birdhouse to squelch your squirrels." …

On show #308: the classic, if crazy, recording by the Trashmen introduces our special guest today--birding guru and author Wayne Petersen. Also on today's show, we meet our Featured Bird in a 60s coffee house, find our Mystery Bird somewhere down south, and find out whether cat food is good for your cardinals. …

On show #307: we talk with Sy Montgomery, author of a wonderful new book called "Birdology." Also today, we feature a bird that has a sinking feeling, and we present a Let's Ask Mike segment we call "Is There a Fungus Among Us?" …

On show #306: field expert Doug Chickering waxes poetic about his attempts to view a Common Moorhen. Also today, we learn some fascinating facts about the Great Kiskadee. And, feeder expert Mike O'Connor offers some tips about egg shells. …

On show #305: field expert Doug Chickering waxes poetic about his attempts to view a Common Moorhen. Also today, we learn some fascinating facts about the Great Kiskadee. And, feeder expert Mike O'Connor offers some tips about egg shells. …

On show #304: Neil Young helps us describe today's Featured Feathered Friend; we present a "spicy" Mystery Bird; and Mike has some explaining to do to the local constabulary. …

On show #303: co-hosted by Smithsonian Tours' David Clapp as we talk about the Galapagos Islands, winter feeding, birds falling from the sky, and the raptor that was mistaken for an airplane. …

On show #302: we feature the cutest bird in the world; we visit the gull family in our Mystery Bird segment; and we serve up some advise on keeping your tabby away from your Troglodytes. …

On show #301: we take you to the Boston Harbor Islands, and to the "Batt Cave" in Minnesota; we learn about the "camp robber"; and Mike offers some more good advice about bird feeding. …

On show #300: we'll learn about two great predators from the north, including the one whose image graced the helmet of Attilla the Hun. Also today, Mike parries something else from the north--a study about the dangers in bird seed. …

On show #299: we'll offer a Mystery Bird whose voice must be heard to be believed. We'll also learn the connection between the legendary Captain Cook and today's Featured Feathered Friend. And we call today's Let's Ask Mike segment "in this case, a creature really was stirring." …

On show #298: we feature a bird that doesn't engage in histrionics, despite its name; we present a Mystery Bird that forecasts the weather; and Mike weighs in with a segment we call "Whatever gets you through the night." …

On show #297: we feature a bird with a red beret and a black goatee; we present a Mystery Bird with a very strange bill; and we offer some advice on buying the right spotting scope. …

On show #296: we give a thumbs up to an amazing new iPhone app called BirdsEye. Also today, BirdWatcher's Digest editor Bill Thompson, III tells us about his new book, and Mike gives a thumbs down to "enhanced" suet. …

On show #295: we tackle two topics today--the birder/duck hunter conflict and the sun-grown/shade grown coffee issue. Plus, why a common bird became a Shakespearean tragedy. …

On show #294: we'll learn about a popular winter visitor to the lower 48; plus a misnamed Mystery Bird, and more on the war against Passer domesticus. …

On show #293: we wax nostalgic about Snow Buntings on Cape Cod; we present a "Royal" Mystery Bird; and Mike weighs in on feeding Vaccinium oxycoccos to your backyard birds. …

On show #292: bird carver Geoff Davis tells the story of a surprise visitor to his studio. Also today, we pump up a finch; and Mike advises a listener to give his chainsaw a rest. …

On show #291: Our Halloween show features a visit from the "bird of doom." We also chat live with the Prince of Plum Island and with our correspondent in the Caribbean. And Mike offers some practical solutions to your woodpecker problems. …

On show #290: we reprise the strange story of the Barnacle Goose; we present the aristocrat of waterfowl as our Mystery Bird; and we enjoy another birding mini-essay from writer Al Batt. …

On show #289: we learn about a bird with a very strange beak; we present a Mystery Bird who's very secretive; and we hear about a cardinal with a crew cut. …

On show #288: we learn about a diving champ and the devil-diver, and a listener offers suggestions for dealing with cats. …

On show #287: we feature a bird from the Rockies; we stump our listeners on a Mystery Bird from the Atlantic Ocean; and Mike helps a listener from down south. …

On show #286: we feature a bird that shucks bi-valves; writer Al Batt waxes poetic about catbirds; and Mike O'Connor helps a listener with a question about flickers. …

On show #285: we report on a new star-studded movie about birdwatchers (!); we get some good migratory bird news from the gulf; and we feature a bird that's as blue as the sky. …

On show #284: Videographer Shawn Carey, just back from his second tour of the oil-fouled Louisiana coast, joins us in studio. Plus, an appreciation of the "rat with wings;" and Mike explodes a myth about exploding rice. …

On show #283: we'll hear about an amazing hawk watch in Mexico; we'll present a Mystery Bird, a group of which is called a "parcel;" and we'll talk peanut and jelly with our bird feeding expert Mike O'Connor. …

On show #282: superstar birder David Clapp joins us in studio, and we re-live his close call with a Sharp-shinned Hawk. Also today, we focus on a fierce Featured Feathered Friend; and Mike advises a listener about preparing for winter bird feeding. …

On show #281: a large bird that saved a small town; true grit with Mike O’Connor; and the bird that made them cry in Argentina. …

On show #280: some oil spill video news; a Mystery Bird that's a big college mascot; and Mike helps a listener fight "the Red Menace." …

On show #279: videographers Shawn Carey and Alex Couter join us in the studio to report on their recent filming odyssey on the shores of Louisiana. Plus, Bank Swallows, a Mystery Bird, and putting some hot bats in your backyard lineup. …

On show #278: we present a secretive stalker as our Mystery Bird; Mike answers a question about swimming shorebirds; and we feature a hawk that seems to think it's a Turkey Vulture. …

On show #277: we learn about Jimmy Buffett's donation of a special boat for wildlife rescue in the Gulf of Mexico. We also hear a story about the "rain owl," and we discover what Sin City is doing about their pigeon problem. …

On show #275: a Gulf oil spill update; a disturbing story about ocean trash; birds from the West and Southwest; and a solar-powered plover? …

On show #276: a Gulf oil spill update; a disturbing story about ocean trash; birds from the West and Southwest; and a solar-powered plover? …

On show #274: plovers in peril (again); the French Mockingbird; Waxwings vs. Cardinals; and an e-mail quiz. …

On show #273: an update on the remarkable spread of the Eurasian Collared-Dove; bird essayist Al Batt joins us live from Minnesota; and we pay a visit to the Talkin' Birds Science Corner. …

On show #272: we air some opinions about whether cleaning oiled birds makes sense; we feature a bird that may sing before a rain; and in our Let's Ask Mike segment, we visit "Mike's Italian Kitchen." …

On show #271: we get a little help from Foghorn Leghorn in our Featured Feathered Friend segment; we get a live pelagic trip report from expert birder David Clapp; and Mike commiserates with a listener who's hankering for hummingbirds. …

On show #270: we examine the decline, and recovery, and decline again of the Brown Pelican. Also today the "sewing machine" appears as our Mystery Bird; and Mike answers a question about Midnight Mockingbird music. …

On show #269: we hear from a Minnesota listener who's love for birdwatching may have gotten a little out of hand. We also present a tail-bobbing Mystery Bird, and a Featured Feathered Friend with a baseball connection. …

On show #268: we learn about the only all- red bird in North America, hear about a newly discovered species, and get an answer from Mike to an intriguing question from a listener.…

On show #267: we come up with a high-tech solution to a listener's dilemma; we feature a migration superstar; and we tell a little story on David Sibley.…

On show #266: the Chuck-Will's-Widow makes the local news; our Featured Feathered Friend makes a blood-curdling cry; and our Mystery Bird stumps all callers. …

On show #265: we touch upon some conservation issues, and hear from listeners who've waxed poetic about their spring sightings. And we learn about a bird whose name sounds like an insult. …

On show #264: we hear a bird whose song has been described as that of a Robin's...as performed by an opera singer; we learn the easiest way to ID a Fish Crow; and we present a Mystery Bird that thrives on mistletoe. …

On show #263: Sean Higgins, the creator of North Carolina's Year of the Birds, joins us by phone from Raleigh; Rynchops niger is our Featured Feathered Friend; and our Mystery Bird swims like a duck but walks like a chicken. …

On show #262: we get an update on northbound hummingbirds; we learn about one of the world's most graceful fliers; and we pay tribute to a great conservationist. …

On show #261: we get an exciting radar report on migrating birds; we hear about the early arrival of hummers in the northeast; and we feature a bird that would rather be heard than seen. …

On show #260: we learn what's killing albatrosses in the Pacific; Mike helps a listener with an owl/bat conflict; and we hear some good news about the California Condor. …

On show #259: we try to balance some sad environmental news with some great spring bird sightings and a story about a "meatloaf on a stick." …

On show #258: we learn about a slightly-misnamed bird that "ain't really green." We also visit the Science Corner to hear about a dinosaur with ginger-colored feathers, and Mike explains to a listener why wood isn't always good...for feeder birds. …

On show #257: we feature a beautiful--but threatened--falcon; we learn about a "shrink your footprint" fair; and Mike explains why bird baths are for people, too. …

On show #256: we feature the Seaweed Bird and report some good news about our Mystery Bird species. And Mike replies to a listener who wants to know who's been visiting her feeders. …

On show #255: Special guest Vern Laux offers his unique perspective on birds, and some signs of spring; Mike advises a listener on how to get a close up view of neighborhood owls; and we bring back a couple of audio souvenirs from our visit to South Texas. …

On show #254: we learn about the birds of South Texas, and about the new Rio Bravo Wildlife Institute on the Rio Grande River. …

On show #253: Mass Audubon's John Galluzzo co-hosts and we talk about wintering catbirds, Snowy Owls, Harlequin Ducks, and King Eiders. And Mike questions a listener's theory about February-nesting bluebirds. …

On show #252: we learn about the bird that nests in the depth of winter; Mike talks about vultures and possums; and we almost stump listeners in our Mystery Bird Contest. …

On show #251: Doug Chickering joins us today to wax poetic about an unusual recent bird sighting. Also today, we bring back the "butcher watchman" as our Featured Feathered Friend, and Mike offers some good advice on keeping your bird seed critter-free. …

On show #250: we hear about how Oreoscoptes montanus is causing a big stir in Massachusetts. And one of North America's fastest flyers stumps some callers in our Mystery Bird contest. …

On show #249: we learn about a Massachusetts birder who was looking for peeps but was arrested as a "Peeping Tom!" We'll also get a distant preview of the "Spring of the Year" through our Featured Feathered Friend. …

On show #248: we hear about some great--and odd--sightings; Mike gives advice to vacationing backyard birders; and for our Featured Feathered Friend, we go up to the lab...to see what's on the slab! …

On show #247: we get a live Christmas Bird Count report Mass Audubon's John Galluzzo; we listen to an amazing recording of a gigantic robin roost; and we hear some hawk migration numbers that boggled our minds! …

On show #246: we learn the nasty secret of Molothrus ater, while our Mystery Bird takes a long winter's nap. …

On show #245: we learn some fascinating facts about a spectacular diver, and a demon driller, and Mike talks about the simple device that will bring non-feeder birds to your backyard. …

On show #244: send us an email for a chance to win a Droll Yankees feeder in our Mystery Bird contest. Guests on today's show, from the River Valley Co-op in western Mass., include Mass Audubon's Wayne Petersen. …

On show #243: we hear about parakeets in the Boston Public Garden; we learn some amazing facts about Ben Franklin's choice for our national symbol; and Mike proffers some advice about presenting pumpkin seeds to your feeder birds. …

On show #242: we welcome Chris Rimmer from the Vermont Center for Ecostudies as co-host, and we learn about the biggest tern in the world. …

On show #241: we learn about the amazing behavior of a Whip-poor-will relative; we get a rare bird report from a listener in Toronto; and a lady name Phoebe provides the inspiration for our Mystery Bird contest. …

On show #240: we learn about a bird who sounds like the Pillsbury Doughboy, and we find our Mystery Bird in a prairie dog hole. …

On show #239: we learn about the bird that's the national symbol of Kazakhstan; Mike offers advice on whether to put rice in your feeders; and we begin the show with the sound of...silence. …

On show #238: we'll hear how Martha Stewart turned her backyard into a mecca for birds; Mike talks about the world's heaviest bird feeder; and Ray Charles helps us introduce our Featured Feathered Friend. …

On show #237: lots of folks in the northeast are saying the birds have disappeared from their backyards. On today's show, we try to find out why. …

On show #236: we present a Mystery Bird that says its name, and we find our Featured Feathered Friend way down in South Texas. …

On show #235: we learn about the bird that inspired the saying, "you look prettier than a pewee in a peckerwood tree." Our man John Galluzzo checks in live from Block Island, and we get a fearless fall finch forecast from Mike O'Connor. …

On show #234: we offer praise for the "common" crow, and for another bird that gets the Rodney Dangerfield treatment. …

On show #233: From the Cornell Lab of Ornithology in Ithaca, New York, features Laura Erickson, editor of the Birdscope newsletter; a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker as our featured bird; and a live sighting of a juvenile Bald Eagle! …

On show #232: We learn about a bird that's also a pack rat; we report an unusual close encounter; and we get jealous over a bird's ability to lose weight, fast. …

On show #231: We learn about a fellow named Dick who lived in the White House long before Dick Nixon. Also today, we NEARLY stump our callers on the Mystery Bird contest, and we offer a salute of sorts to the people of Hinckley, Ohio. …

On show #230: Scott Weidensaul explains why shade-grown coffee is essential for the survival of birds. Also today, we hear a bird that sounds like a frog, and Mike solves an Osprey mystery for a listener. …

On show #229: Scott Weidensaul explains why shade-grown coffee is essential for the survival of birds. Also today, we hear a bird that sounds like a frog, and Mike solves an Osprey mystery for a listener. …

On show #228: we learn about red-eyed birds and skunk-headed coots, and how to find owls in the daytime. …

On show #227: Wayne Petersen talks about the Important Bird Areas program and bird-friendly coffee. And Mike answers the provocative question, "Why can't we get British women to twitch?" …

On show #226: we offer free samples of bird-friendly Birds and Beans coffee; the big bad Black-back stars as our Featured Feathered Friend; and in our Let's Ask Mike segment we hear about the Cardinal vs. the Oldsmobile. …

On show #225: David Clapp talks about shorebirds heading south, and the shearwater spectacular; Mike discusses the "robin with a sore throat;" and a listener ID's a hard-to-find Mystery Bird. …

On show #224: we find out why our Mystery Bird has a strangely-shaped bill; we learn about a blue heron that's sometimes white; and we salute an Australian town for their successful battle against waste and pollution. …

On show #223: we learn some fascinating facts about a bird whose many nicknames include Skunk-headed Coot. We call today's Let's Ask Mike segment "Birds on a Break." And a wolf whistle helps an Illinois caller identify our Mystery Bird. …

On show #222: we learn some amazing stuff about the Sooty Shearwater; we present a tail-wagging Mystery Bird; and Mike explains what makes the Eastern Wood Pewee unique. …

On show #221: we learn about a "rare" owl that's actually quite common; Mike tries to save a wren...and a marriage; and we spring a little surprise on our unsuspecting engineer. …

On show #220: we learn about a bird that winters in the north; Mike helps a baffled backyard birder; and we present a new Birder's Profile. …

On show #219: we welcome Olivia Gentile, author of "Life List," the remarkable story of Phoebe Snetzinger, who saw more species of birds than anyone else in history. Plus, the "Wolf Whistle" sandpiper and a rapidly-spinning Mystery Bird. …

On show #218: a bird with an eight-and-a-half-foot wingspan; one that's a most graceful flyer; another that's a world-class dancer; and a bird that's smarter than we think--all featured on today's edition of Talkin' Birds. …

On show #217: we learn how the Purple Martin got its name, we get some advice on attracting Indigo Buntings, and blue is the color of our Mystery Bird.bird with a prodigious appetite for conifer seeds. …

On show #216: Mass Audubon's John Galluzzo co-hosts and we get a live report from a lady named Krill out in Cape Cod Bay. Also today, Mike answers two questions for a listener, and we hear about a bird with a prodigious appetite for conifer seeds. …

On show #215: we learn some fascinating facts about Pelecanus occidentalis, Mike has some good advice about saving your suet, and we hear some good news about a pesticide ban. …

On show #214: we welcome Doug Chickering, who offers a poetic description of a Northern Flicker mating dance. Also today we learn about one of the few birds that exists only in the United States. And Mike tries to help a desperate listener achieve a life-long dream! …

On show #213: we talk about some great conservation news; we learn some fascinating phalarope facts; and Mike explains the wanderings of the Pine Siskin. …

On show #212: our man John "Gadabout" Galluzzo checks in from the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge in New York. Also today, a caller makes good use of her field guide in our Mystery Bird Contest, and Mike helps--or at least sympathizes with--a listener whose robins are singing at 2 a.m. …

On show #211: the late, great Roger Miller helps us introduce our Featured Feathered Friend; we field a couple of calls from Canada; and Mike helps a listener solve a cowbird conundrum. …

On show #210: bird migration researcher Tim Spahr describes how he predicted a big fallout of birds last spring and how he might do it again. Also today our man Mike explains the behavior of paint-eating Blue Jays, and we learn how a beautiful diver got its name. …

On show #209: David Clapp joins us for some hummingbird talk; Mike offers advice for a concerned backyard birder; and "Daddy Longlegs" is today's Mystery Bird. …

On show #208: an email quiz leads you to a 2-pound bag of Birds and Beans bird-friendly coffee. Also today, Mike solves a mystery about bees in bird feeders, and we learn about the plain bird with the flashing wings. …

On show #207: we try to solve the mystery of a Robin's egg found in February; we give away more Birds and Beans coffee; and we learn some interesting stuff about a misnamed bird. …

On show #206: we travel to ancient Troy to learn about a "beautiful swimmer;" our man Mike answers a question about birds and salmonella; and you could win a two-pound bag of bird-friendly coffee in our email quiz. …

On show #205: we learn about the only true lark that's native to North America; Mike opines on the effect of cold weather on the timing of migrating birds; and our resident poet, Doug Chickering, laments "The Year of Perpetual Winter." …

On show #204: we learn about a bird that looks like a Viking ship; Mike answers a surprising listener question; and we give away 6 pounds of bird-friendly coffee! …

On show #203: renowned field guide author and naturalist Kenn Kaufman joins us to provide some first-hand observations about the importance of bird-friendly coffee. Also today, we head way out west to learn about a bird from...way back east. …

On show #202: we welcome naturalist and author Scott Weidensaul, who explains the virtues of bird-friendly coffee. Also today, we stump our listeners on the Mystery Bird Contest, and Mike discusses how ultraviolet light may prevent bird window crashes. …

On show #201: biologist Bridget Stutchbury talks about bird-friendly coffee and the Birds and Beans northern tour. Also today, Mike shatters a myth about birds and Christmas trees, and we learn a great way to tell the difference between a Cooper's Hawk and a Sharpie. …

On show #200: Dr. Russell Greenberg of the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center explains why drinking shade-grown coffee is so important. Also today, we learn about an owl that flies like a crow, and we present a Let's Ask Mike segment that we call "Like the Downy of a thistle."…

On show #199: we learn about a beautiful bird whose diet ranges from fish and crustaceans to carrion from Polar Bear kills. Also today, our Let's Ask Mike segment helps a listener deal with suet-stealing starlings. …

On show #198: we learn about a bird that's not as quiet as his name would suggest; and Mike answers a question about putting lavender fronds...in your birdbath. …

On show #197: intrepid birder Doug Chickering describes his amazing bird-a-day feat and waxes poetic about his favorite sightings of 2008. …

On show #196: we hear about the strange legend of the Barnacle Goose, we debut our poem entitled "Shooting Clouds," and in our Let's Ask Mike segment the score is Barred Owl 1, American Crow 0. …

On show #195: we learn about a sea mouse and an evening singer and get some tips on keeping your tabby away from your troglodytes. …

On show #194: we discover how the voyages of Captain Cook led to the naming of a tern; we hear a bird that sounds like a cow; and Mike helps a listener who's craving crossbills. …

On show #193: we hear about the Bush Administration's plans to remove protections for endangered species. Also today, we head for the tropics to meet our Featured Feathered Friend, and Mike sounds off on the perils of using mixed seed. …

On show #192: we hear about a falcon from the north, a Bluebird from the west, and a handsome fellow who wears a necklace. …

On show #191: we hear about a falcon from the north, a Bluebird from the west, and a handsome fellow who wears a necklace. …

On show #190: we learn about a misnamed warbler; we ALMOST stump our listeners in the Mystery Bird Contest; and Mike explains what to do if your finches diss your thistle. …

On show #189: Massachusetts Audubon's John Galluzzo joins us as co-host; we learn some fascinating facts about the Wilson's Snipe; and we hear about what might be the start of a big winter finch invasion. …

On show #188: we hear one man's idea of the world's sexiest birds; we nearly stump our listeners in the Mystery Bird Contest, and in our Let's Ask Mike segment, the topic is "Drill, Baby, Drill." …

On show #187: an indian legend tells how a certain duck came to have red eyes; Mike opines about a crow/raptor standoff; and we learn about another bird/dinosaur connection in a visit to our Science Corner.…

On show #186: a mad scientist helps us create a Featured Feathered Friend; Mike warns us about the dangers of empty bird feeders; and our new contributor Doug Chickering waxes poetic about...cormorants. …

On show #185: raptor expert Shawn Carey joins us live from the top of Hawk Mountain in Pennsylvania. Also on today's show, Mike O'Connor tackles the topic of feather felony, and a weed seed-eating songbird challenges callers in our Mystery Bird Contest. …

On show #184: an infamous old TV commercial helps us introduce a Featured Feathered Friend; Mike helps a listener save money while heating her birdbath; and we're giving away a beautiful prize in our email contest.…

On show #183: award-winning author and naturalist Scott Weidensaul talks about the new "Birds & Beans" initiative. Also today, the Theme from Rawhide helps us re-introduce a Featured Feathered Friend, and Mike tells a listener how gorging House Sparrows retain their slender shapes. …

On show #182: a familiar-sounding Mystery Bird fools a number of callers; we hear the lament of the House Finch; and Mike tackles a legal question about collecting birds' nests. …

On show #181: we hear some predictions about which northern finches may visit the lower 48 this winter; we feature a bird that looks a lot better than it sounds; and Mike explains why pigeons walk so weirdly. …

On show #180: we hear about wrestling Mockingbirds, the wonders of Block Island, and the only "true migrant" Eastern woodpecker. …

On show #179: Mass Audubon's Wayne Petersen tells us about a new program that will turn off the lights in Boston skyscrapers to reduce energy use...and save migrating birds. And we stump our listeners in today's Mystery Bird Contest. …

On show #178: we catch the East Coast excitement about a Southwest hummer; we also learn some fun facts about the Ruby-throat; and we even get some advice about pigeons. …

On show #177: we get some great reports on migrating nighthawks, and Whimbrels at a Pops Concert, and a live report from the Isles of Shoals in the Gulf of Maine. Also today, Mike provides some good binocular advice. …

On show #176: we learn about birds that boom, and birds that break speed records, and Mike tells a listener why her birds are so quiet. …

On show #175: we stump our callers in the Mystery Bird Contest, we "crown" a featured bird, and Mike answers a listener's eggshell inquiry. …

On show #174: We hear about a southwestern hummer that's causing a stir in Massachusetts; we learn about a bird that rubs its feathers with mothballs; and we try to answer a question about a dove that just refuses to go home. …

On show #172: we hear some fabulous conservation news from Canada. Also today, we learn why a muddy retriever might bring birds to your yard. And, take this Featured Bird...please! …

On show #173: Boreal Campaign Senior Scientist Jeff Wells shares the good news about 55 million acres being protected in northern Ontario. Also today, we stump our callers in the Mystery Bird Contest, and a quote from the great Aldo Leopold introduces our Featured Feathered Friend. …

On show #171: we "return to those thrilling days of yesteryear," hear a most unusual-sounding bird, and try to solve a mystery about some nocturnal woodpeckers. …

On show #170: we hear the sound that gives a tiny predator its name; we hear the calls of roosting parakeets; and in our Let's Ask Mike segment, we hear some advice about dealing with a screeching Great Horned Owl. …

On show #169: we get a trucker-friendly introduction to our Featured Feathered Friend; we stump our callers with a wild-sounding Meadowlark relative; and our man Mike reveals the “secrets” of some long-lived birds. …

On show #168: we get a live mountaintop bird report, we learn how a wandering songbird got its name, and we hear about an "exploding" Mockingbird. …

On show #167: we listen to some frightening creatures with huge red eyes, hear "testimony" from a Congressional hearing, and solve the mystery of the Peeping Tom Chipping Sparrows. …

On show #166: we learn how feeding phalaropes defy gravity, and we recount a bird's story that began in Central Park. …

On show #165: we revisit a favorite Featured Friend, and Mike tells us why we should clean our houses...once a year. …

On show #164: a Featured Friend not to be trifled with; a Mystery Bird that'll pilfer from your picnic table; and Mike talks about the increasing cost of filling your...birdfeeders. …

On show #163: we learn the remarkable history of a Featured Feathered Friend, and Mike tries to help with a backyard burglary. …

On show #162: We're serenaded by Tiny Tim and Slim Whitman (!) as we learn about a bird that times its egg laying to the phases of the moon. And we pay a visit to the Talkin' Birds Science Corner. …

On show #161: We present a reprise of our Kentucky Birdy race; we answer the question "what's a bullbat?"; and a listener describes a wild backyard scene. …

On show #160: We get a live report from the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, and feature a bird that sounds like two stones banging together. …

On show #159: Dr. Bridget Stutchbury talks about the many threats facing neotropical migrants as described in her new book; we meet the "Canada Jay;" and we stump our callers in our Mystery Bird contest. …

On show #158: we learn how the Anna's Hummingbird makes its mysterious "chirp," and we feature a bird with a plume on its pileum! …

On show #157: we hear some disturbing news about pesticide use south of the border; we learn about the only shorebird that uses leks; and Mike helps a listener deal with messy visitors. …

On show #156: an Alaskan listener reports some cool sightings, John Galluzzo checks in from Nantucket island, and Mike O'Connor has some advice for a bluebird lover. …

On show #155: we learn what happened to the Rufous-sided Towhee; we recall the year when there was no summer; and we spread some good news about the beautiful Red Knot. …

On show #154: we'll hear how some New Jersey officials are trying to save the Red Knot. We'll also get some insight into this winter's irruptions of Boreal birds; and our man Mike pontificates about peanuts. …

On show #153: we're wowed by the traveling exploits of a certain shorebird; Dr. Jeff Wells joins us to talk about his important new book; and we stump our callers on the Mystery Bird Contest (and forget to reveal its identity--we'll do so next week!) …

On show #152: we enter the world of the Great Grey Owl through the poetry of John Caddy; we learn about some amazing dove behavior; and Mike dispenses some advice to a finch-deprived listener. …

On show #151: we learn some remarkable things about the Solitary Sandpiper; Mike explains why a House Sparrow emptied an entire feeder without eating anything; and we hear about some great options for handicapped birders. …

On show #150: we learn about the "symbol of the wild north," and we solve mysteries about a loner bird...and a lonely birdbath …

On show #149: William Cullen Bryant helps us with our Featured Feathered Friend; a special guest tells us about an amazing new system for watching nighttime bird migration; and Mike tells a listener why he doesn't see birds on weekdays! …

On show #148: we learn the truth about Carduelis Pinus; we hear from a silly-sounding Mystery Bird (who'll remain a mystery until next week); and Mike offers advice on...getting rid of a bird. …

On show #147: we hear about a bird that avoids injury through built-in airbags; Mass. Audubon's John Galluzzo joins us in studio; and Mike offers some good winter backyard bird advice. …

On show #146: we hear from bird song expert Don Kroodsma, with music inspired by birds; and Mike recommends preparing suet at home...NOT! …

On show #145: we present a swimming "turkey," an effervescent pipsqueak, and a discussion about fly paper! …

On show #144: we learn about one of Eastern America's favorite birds; we come REALLY close to stumping our listeners on the Mystery Bird Contest; and Mike offers some advice on attracting winter finches. …

On show #143: we wax poetic about a visitor from the north; a tiny brown Mystery Bird nearly stumps our listeners; and Mike explains how a little tray can solve a critter problem. …

On show #142: we present a bird with a "red beret and a black goatee." We also welcome a special guest, and we recount the mysteries surrounding the Red Crossbill. …

On show #141: we learn about a songbird that behaves like a raptor, and a tropical bird that can moonwalk better than Michael Jackson! …

On show #140: we know cats are bad news for birds, but how about dogs? And, should birds line their nests with...fiberglass insulation? …

On show #139: we "construct" a Featured Feathered Friend," present a Mystery Bird which gets its name from its call, and get some bird feeding advice from our man Mike. …

On show #138: ornithologist Marshall Iliff talks about western hummingbirds wintering in New England; and he explains why the Red Crossbill may soon be "split" into several species. …

On show #137: we hear that an item in your desk drawer could prevent bird window crashes. Also today, Ray waxes nostalgic about birding in the snow, and Mike talks about another southern bird that may be moving north. …

On show #136: we learn why New Englanders are being encouraged to put out hummingbird feeders...now! Also today, we hear a bird that sounds like a motorboat, and Mike tells us what he thinks about attracting birds with cranberries. …

On show #135: we find out why our beautiful Mystery Bird doesn't sing; we learn about a bird that's not as big as it looks; and Mike offers some tips on caring for your...dead trees. …

On show #134: we start with a scary--and amazing--Featured Feathered Friend, present a Mystery Bird that sounds like a chipmunk, and hear from a listener about why you might want to put red squares on the side of your house! …

On show #133: we learn about a spectacular diver, and a migration champion; and Mike shatters a myth about... exploding birds. …

On show #132: our Mystery Bird almost stumps our callers, Mike answers a Mockingbird migration question, and we feature the bird that inspired the old Heckel and Jeckel TV cartoon. …

On show #131: we answer a question about bald Cardinals, we hear an amazing story about a winged shoplifter, and our Mystery Bird arrives in Massachusetts after a 150 year absence! …

On show #130: we hear from listeners in Alaska and Japan, and we learn about North America's only all-red bird. …

On show #129: the Mystery Bird is an underrated mimic; our Featured Feathered Friend is a scary one; and a listener offers some good reasons to keep your hummingbird feeders up after the end of summer. …

On show #128: we focus on raptors--with Shawn Carey in a live report from the top of Pennsylvania's Hawk Mountain; in our Featured Feathered Friend segment; and with our near-stumper Mystery Bird. …

On show #127: birding guru (and Red-Footed Falcon discoverer) Vern Laux tells us about a huge incursion of Purple Finches and Red-breasted Nuthatches..and why you might want to put up more feeders this fall. And we learn that the Sandhill Crane has established a new nesting location. …

On show #126: we again almost stump our callers in our Mystery Bird Contest; and Ray files one of his "Rooftop Reports." …

On show #125: we hear from a very underappreciated bird, and we also hear from new listeners in New Jersey and Oregon. …

On show #124: the Elvis Bird meets...Elvis. And why they're linked by the year 1935. Also today, a last minute caller IDs our Mystery Bird, and our man Mikes gives us some good Osprey talk. …

On show #123: we feature what may be the world's most graceful flyer; and we present a Mystery Bird that could end up making big news! …

On show #122: "Jim" is a game show contestant as we present our Featured Feathered Friend; we stump all of our Mystery Bird callers; and Mike advises a listener about preserving an aging next box. …

On show #121: we discover the identity of the "French Mockingbird," stump callers from Georgia and Texas on our Mystery Bird Contest, and learn about a bird that can thank Dutch Elm disease for its population growth. …

On show #120: we hear a bird that's pound-for-pound one of the loudest on the planet; we learn some fascinating facts about those cigars with wings; and Mike helps a listener deal with a "herd" of grackles. …

On show #119: we enjoy calls from 2 parts of Illinois, present an intriguing question to Mike from a listener in Israel, and learn some amazing facts about a bird from India! …

On show #118: we talk by phone with Mass Audubon's John Galluzzo in the middle of his bird walk, and former Sanctuary Director David Clapp pays us an entertaining visit in the studio. …

On show #117: We salute our friends north of the border in our Featured Feathered Friend segment. Also today, our man Mike O'Connor, whose new book just got a rave review in Birder's World Magazine, helps a listener with a startling problem. …

On show #116: We almost stump all of our Mystery Bird callers; Mike offers advice to a frustrated backyard birder; and our Science Corner reveals some amazing research about apparent weapon use by birds. …

On show #115: We learn some of the secrets that have helped Don Kroodsma become the world's leading authority on birdsongs. …

On show #114: We meet Barbara Volkle, moderator of the highly-successful MassBird.org email list; Mike offers some feline-fighting advice to a listener from Wales; and our Mystery Bird proves to be a stumper. …

On show #113: Editor Lisa White talks about her new book "Good Birders Don't Wear White"; we get a long-distance winner in our Mystery Bird Contest; and Mike tackles a question about an avian "Aztec Two-step." …

On show #112: today's show, one listener suggests to another that there's only one sure way to eliminate House Sparrows--and it's not pretty. Plus, a couple o' cowpokes introduce our Featured Feathered Friend. …

On show #111: today's show offers a potpourri of listener questions and observations by phone and email, while Mike offers some sage advice about bird books. …