New generations of a critically endangered species of songbird are failing to learn the tunes they need for courtship. It could lead to extinction.
Tag: Birds
Wisdom, the World’s Oldest Known Wild Bird, Has Another Chick
An albatross named Wisdom has astounded researchers by hatching a chick at more than 70 years old, securing her title as the world’s oldest known breeding bird.
A Raven Queen Vanishes, and Britain Checks a Prophecy
One of the resident birds at the Tower of London is feared to have died. Legend says at least six must be kept there, or the nation will fall.
A Battle of Singing Stars, With Wings and Feathers
Bird song competitions — a pastime that is closer to meditation than to competitive sports — are big in Suriname. Success requires years of training and an appreciation for a slower pace of life.
He Once Trafficked in Rare Birds. Now, He Tells How It’s Done.
After a chance encounter in Brazil, Johann Zillinger became one of the world’s most prolific wildlife smugglers. Three decades and two prison stints later, he says he has gone straight.
Bird of the Year 2020 Vote in New Zealand Hit by Hack
More than 1,500 fake votes were slipped into New Zealand’s Bird of the Year 2020 contest in favor of the kiwi pukupuku.
Who Would Rig This Vote? The Fraud Was Real (and Feathers Were Ruffled)
More than 1,500 fake votes were slipped into New Zealand’s Bird of the Year 2020 contest in favor of the kiwi pukupuku.
A Glance at Daily Life Among the Caretakers of Britain’s Small Islands
Stationed off the coast of Britain, island wardens manage the preservation of their small speck of land — while coping with extreme weather and limited access to the mainland.
Foul-Mouthed Parrots to Return to Park, Possibly Reformed
Five birds who moved to an English park had unprintable vocabularies, which they deployed on amused guests. Keepers said the parrots also learned to laugh at one another.
Extinction Is Not Inevitable. These Species Were Saved.
Conservation efforts have saved up to 48 mammal and bird species since 1993, but scientists say much more is needed to stem biodiversity loss.