Course 37: Fascinating, Non-Parrot Bird Species

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These non-parrot bird species are sure to catch your interest with their compelling stories, looks, or actions.

Galapagos finch

Darwin’s Finches Continue to Evolve

Darwin’s Finches of the Galapagos Islands are giving scientists the unique and amazing chance to watch evolution in progress, all in a single lifetime!

Nicobar Pigeon

The Resplendent Nicobar Pigeon

Its unique appearance, gentle demeanor, and typical fearlessness of humans makes the Nicobar Pigeon a unique and beautiful bird. Discover where this colorful bird is native, why its wild population is on the decline, and how zoos around the world are collaborating to keep the species alive.

Alala crow

Meet Hawaii’s Crow

Conservationists are working hard to save Hawaii’s endangered crow, the Alala, which disappeared from the wild years ago. Captive breeding offers hope that one day Alalas will fly free again, and a major step to that happened recently.

Desert Cardinal on a tree branch

The Desert Cardinal: Beauty In the Desert

Do male and female Desert Cardinals differ in looks? Learn this and other fun facts about this lesser-known, southern counterpart to the Northern Cardinal.

Mallard Duck

Fascinating Facts About Ducks, Geese, And Swans

Ever wonder what life is like for the ducks, geese or swans you see at the neighborhood pond or hear quacking and honking as they pass by overhead?

wild turkeys

Gobble Up These Fun Turkey Facts

I love Thanksgiving, in part because I am an avian vet and this is a bird holiday involving a very special bird – the wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo). Here are some fun turkey facts to pass around your Thanksgiving table.

silkie chickens, chickens

Meet The Silkie Chicken

The Silkie chicken is known for its fluffy plumage, which is said to feel like silk and satin. Add together its other unusual qualities, such as black skin and bones, blue earlobes, and five toes on each foot— not to mention a friendly temperament — and it’s easy to see why the Silkie chicken wins the hearts of many.