Podcast Episodes

LATEST EPISODE
Cuckoos (Family: Cuculidae)

Learn about the cuckoo family, from the iconic roadrunner to the mysterious coucals and beautiful emerald cuckoos. This episode explores the unique biology these fascinating birds, proving they are far more than just the inspiration for a clock.

Episode
129
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From the Field: Birds and Birding in Vietnam and Cambodia

Recorded in a hotel room in China, Ivan shares his recent birding and travel experiences in the countries of Vietnam and Cambodia.

Episode
107
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From the Field: How My Life Became All About Birds

From a jungle cabin in Vietnam, Ivan tells the tale of how he created a career centered on birds and birding.

Episode
106
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Mergansers

Of all the ducks in the world, mergansers are the species that depend the most on fish. Not surprisingly, they’re excellent divers and swimmers.

Episode
105
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Bird Habitat: Rocky Shores and Sandy Beaches

Explore how these dynamic habitats shape the lives of coastal birds, from their feeding and nesting behaviors to the conservation challenges they face

Episode
104
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The Common Kingfisher

Learn all about the unique behaviors, lifestyle, and adaptations of the Common Kingfisher, one of Eurasia's most beloved birds.

Episode
102
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The Evolution of Feathers

Explore the fascinating evolution of feathers, from their humble beginnings in the earliest dinosaurs to the intricate structures that enable flight in modern birds.

Episode
101
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100th Episode Celebration!

In this special episode of The Science of Birds, host Ivan Phillipsen reflects on the journey of the podcast, shares personal insights, and highlights three favorite bird species.

Episode
100
SHOW NOTES
Cormorants and Shags

Enter the world of cormorants and shags, members of the avian family Phalacrocoracidae. These sleek, hook-billed birds are known for their distinctive silhouettes, often seen drying their wings on seaside cliffs or wetland trees.

Episode
99
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Bird Brains

Dive into the unique anatomy of avian brains, to learn how their specialized structures support complex behaviors. Birds' brains are marvels of nature's engineering, evolved for efficiency and adaptability.

Episode
98
SHOW NOTES