Dirty Bird Podcast

Kid friendly episode! Dr. John and nature/children's book author Adrienne Palma discuss her book Oakley The Osprey which is packed full of fun Osprey facts and amazing illustrations. Also, the book is set in the Outer Banks where Adrienne lives and Dr. John grew up as a kid- allowing them both to nostalgically talk about the beautiful OBX, how its featured in the books, and the wildlife (avian and otherwise!) found there. They also discuss the importance of teaching kids about nature and the great vehicle books are to educate the next generation on the animals we love.Baby Bo makes an appearance on this episode! .Check out all Adrienne's books at https://www.adriennepalma.com/.Shout out also to illustrator of Oakley the Osprey Amber Rae Malott! Check her out at https://amberraewatercolor.com/pages/about

HONK! In this listener suggested episode, Dr. John covers his first species of the family Anseriformes (Ducks, Geese, Swans) by talking about the Arctic specialist the Barnacle Goose. This bird is super interesting- everything from its breeding strategy to avoid predators from the really interesting origin of its common name. Can you believe people used to think the Barnacle Goose was a crustacean and not a bird?! Learn how to identify this bird from its plumage and vocalizations. Also learn all about what it likes to eat and how it makes babies. Dr. John also explored the population status of the Barnacle Goose over time. Finally, we end the episode with good ole' evolutionary history and duck-dive into the origins of geese way back in the Cretaceous alongside dinosaurs. .Intro music by Ricky Pistone and outro by the Sidewalk Slammers. Check them out wherever you get your music.All Bird sounds are from Xeno-Canto.org.Intro call by David Darrel-Lambert.Yapping calls by Lars Edenius.Type A Call by Petter Westberg.Type B call by Patrik Aberg.Cacophony of Barnacle Geese by Hans Norelius

Listeners give this episode 5/5 Starlings! Love them or hate them, European Starlings are here to stay in their introduced range across every continent except Antarctica. Even though they eat crops, crash planes, and evict native birds from their nests these birds have some beautiful singing abilities, display an amazing flying pattern called murmurtions, and may be as smart as crows and ravens! Learn all about the European Starling with Dr. John. .Thanks to Volume Book store in Buckhannon, West Virginia for producing this episode! .Special thanks also to the book "Starlings: The Curious Odyssey of of a Most Hated Bird by Mike Stark for great background research https://www.nebraskapress.unl.edu/bison-books/9781496242020/starlings/.Intro music by Ricky Pistone and Outro Music by the Sidewalk Slammers.All bird songs are from xeno-canto.org.Opening call by Olivier Swift .Starling song by Uku Paal .Starling mimicking birds call by Paul Marvin .Starling imitating siren call by Lee Alder .Starling whistle song by Timo Schnabel .Starling chatter by Barnard Collet .Staring Chatter 2 by David Bissett

The Hoatzin may stink but this episode doesn't! Join Dr. John as he talks about the incredible life history of this Amazon rainforest bird. This bird is truly unique- its the only bird that can fly, swim and climb. Its the only bird that's a foregut fermenter. And IT STINKS! Learn why this bird farts and burps so much, explore the biology behind its gut microbiome, and join it for its truly epic revolutionary journey that spans an ocean. .PLUS! We are finally joined on the show by Baby Bo and Lauren!.Intro music by Ricky Pistone and Outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers.All bird sounds are from xeno-canto.org.Opening Call by Carlos Delgado JUMABITA Grunting Call by Rosendo Fraga Pterodactyl sounds by Guy Kirwan

The Magpie is a smart and ubiquitous bird found throughout Europe and Asia and its no surprise its captured human intention across many cultures. It has even had a opera written about it! Learn about the unique behaviors of these birds that show just how intelligent they are- maybe even on par with the great apes (or us humans?). Join Dr. John in the woods of Buckhannon, WV during a tree cricket filled summer afternoon as he tells you everything you need to know about the Common Magpie. .Intro music by Ricky Pistone and Outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers. Check them out wherever you get your music.Bird sounds are from Xeno-Canto.orgOpening Call by David Bissett .Magpie typical call by Johannes Worona .Magpie Variety Calls by Aku Kalliomaki . Whisper Song by Jacob Ramil Millarengo .Socializing sounds by Nicolas Martinez

In a conversation that meanders and glides like the cross country ski trails of a snow covered mountain, Dr. John sits down in the woods with Chip Chase to discuss birds, ecosystems, and optimism. Located in the beautiful and unique Canaan Valley of Tucker County, West Virginia, White Grass Touring center offers cross country and snowshoeing experiences rarely seen outside the West Coast or Vermont and its owner/operator- Chip Chase- is a living legend in the towns of Davis and Thomas. With his years of wisdom, mastery in naturalism, and positive outlook Chip tells tales of the birds of Canaan Valley mixed in with ecology lessons and outdoor philosophy. Come sit by the creek with us and chat!

A four for one special! In this episode, Dr. John tells you everything you need to know about the four Darter species, also known as Anhinga. These curious water birds have a variety of nicknames from "water turkey" to "snake bird". Learn how to identify them in the field, listen to their calls, and find out all about their unique hunting strategy that separates them from other avian aquatic species. Also, listen to the soothing background noises of the summer forest in Buckhannon, West Virginia!.Thanks to Jess for this episode's bird watch!.Thanks to Milko for providing the photo for this episode's cover art! Check his instagram page out @milkogervet_photography .Intro music by Ricky Pistone and Outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers. Check them out wherever you get your music.All Bird Sounds are from Xeno-Canto.org.Opening Anhinga Anhinga call by Phil Brown .Nesting Call by Paul Marvin.American Darter greeting call by Daniel Parker .African Darter by Lynette Rudman .Australasian Darter by Nick Talbot.Oriental Darter by Andrew Spencer

In this two for one episode, learn about the very similar looking Downy and Hairy Woodpecker! The smallest woodpecker in North America, the Downy Woodpecker can be difficult to tell apart from its larger cousin the Hairy Woodpecker but Dr. John will teach you tips and tricks to expertly differentiate them on your next birding adventure. Plus, learn all about their feeding and breeding. And finally, end the show with insight into their evolutionary history and learn why they look so much alike. Plus a bird watch from Cass! .Intro music by Ricky Pistone and Outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers .Bird sounds are from xeno-canto.org.Opening downy whinny by Bobby Wilcox.Downy call 1 by Paul Marvin.Hairy call 1 by Scott Olmstead.Downy Whinny 1 by Paul Marvin.Downy Call 2 by Frank Lambert .Hairy Call 2 by Scott Olmstead .Downy Rattle by Paul Marvin.Hairy Rattle by Scott Crabtree.Downy Drumming 1 by Joseph Morlan.Hairy Drumming by Richard E. Webster .Fast Downy Drumming by Paul Driver.Downy Drum 2 by Paul Driver.Hairy Drum 2 by Richard E. Webster.Feeding Pecks by Samuel Jones Hairy + Downy

With its nearly an inch and a half long taong, the red-tailed hawk certainly wears big socks. And you know what they say about big socks...big hawks! The Red-Tailed Hawk is ubiquitous across North America where its large body size and preference to perch along roadways make it easy to spot. But what secrets is the red-tailed hawk hiding? On this episode of Dirty Bird Podcast, learn all about the life history of the red-tailed hawk. Dr. John tells you all about the feeding and breeding (including some spicy love stories!) before ending the show talking about conservation and evolution. Also, we start this episode with a Native American Cultural Story: How The Hawk Got Its Red Tail. ..Intro music by Ricky Pistone and outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers. Check them out wherever you get your music.Red-Tailed Hawk Intro sound from xeno-canto.org by Richard E. Webster Drum Sound from freesound.org by sandyrbFlute Sound from freesound.org by CarlosCarty Bald Eagle call from xeno-canto.org by Steve Hampton Red Tailed Hawk Call 2 from xeno-canto.org by Peter Ward and Ken Hall Bald Eagle Call 2 from xeno-canto.org by Pal MarvinThump sound from freesound.org by KrystianPawlowski Slice sound from freesound.org by CalGreHollywood Red-Tailed Hawk call from xeno-canto.org by Bruce Lagerquist Warning Call Red-Tailed Hawk from xeno-canto.org by Jeff Dyck Begging Call from xeno-canto.org by Richard E. Webster

Party people! Its time to learn about conservation! The Whooping crane very nearly went the way of the Pileated Woodpecker, Bachman's Warbler, and the Moa (all extinct birds covered before on this show!). While it is still very much endangered, it is a conservation success story. Learn all about the life history of the whooping crane, their evolutionary history (they were always very rare birds!) and how they came back from the brink of extinction. Dr. John explains it all, with lots of dumb jokes and bird puns included!..Outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers, check them out where ever you get your music.Bird sounds from Xeno-Canto.org.Whoop 1 by J Frank Goodwin.Whoop 2 by Sue Riffe

The American Robin is ubiquitous in backyards all across North America. But how much do you know about its life history, evolution, and unique vocal range? In this listener suggested episode, Dr. John rock out with the robin and brings you all the cool facts about their omnivorous diet, cooperative breeding, and a couple giggles at their genus name...Turdus! ..Intro music by Ricky Pistone and outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers. Check them out wherever you get your music..Bird sounds are from Xeno-Canto.org.Intro Robin Song by Brian Cox.Robin Song by Richard E. Webster.Robin Song 2 by Paul Driver.Fast Robin Song by Richard E. Webster .Alarm calls, chucks:.Alarm Call 1 by Ted Floyd.Alarm Call 2 by Richard E. Webster .Seet Alarm Call by Thomas Ryder Page

This Turkey is served HOT! Dr. John sits on a log in the woods of Holly River State Park, WV as he talk about all the dirty details of Turkeys, wild and domestic. Learn some great facts to share around the thanksgiving table- and also how to disprove some of the common myths that your Uncle likes to say. Some of these facts may be too hot to handle- erect snoods, big skull caps, and gobbles- oh my! Learn about the domestication of turkeys, wild turkey evolution history, turkey breeding, and much more! Its everything you didn't want to know about Turkeys .Also thanks to Cass for this week's bird watch!.Intro music by Ricky Pistone and outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers.Birds sounds are from xeno-canto.org.Intro Gobble by Thomas Paine .Intro Turkey Call by .Gobble 1 by Paul Marvin .Gobble 2 by.Gobble 3 by.Courtship Chump, Hum, sneeze by Ted Floyd.Cackle Call by Paul Driver.Cooing Contact call by Bruce Lagerquist .Yelp Call by Bruce Lagerquist

Recorded in the only virgin spruce forest in the eastern US, this episode about Common Ravens is full of the ambience of Gaudineer Scenic Area in the Monongahela National Forest. As chickadees and kinglets chirp in the background, Dr. John tells you everything you need to know about the Common Raven. These birds a spookily intelligent and despite huge population crashes in the 1800s they are now extremely successful....sometimes to the detriment of endangered species! Learn about how the Raven really can quoth "nevermore" and the efforts to save the gopher tortoise from raven's ravenous beaks. Join Dirty Bird Podcast for another educational and fun episode!.Intro music by Ricky Pistone and outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers.All bird sounds are from xeno-canto.org.Raven Opening Call by Lars Edenius .“Qwork” call by Lars Edenius .Ravens Talking by Markus Jacobs..Alarm Call by Lars Edenius .Contact Call by Joao Tomas.Raven Speaking: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPhbXsxE7aY.Raven Saying Goodmorning: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iQShKi1s2sY

Echolocation, extreme night vision, cave dwelling…you’d think this describes a bat species but no! The amazing Oilbird of South America not only has a unique name but also some incredible evolutionary adaptations that allow it to breed in the pitch dark of caves leaving only at night to stalk one of its favorite food…avocados! Put on your headlamp and join Dr. John as we spelunk in search of knowledge about the Oilbird. Learn everything you need to know about this odd but amazing bird species. .Intro music by Ricky Pistone and Outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers, check them out wherever you get your music.All bird sounds are from xeno-canto.org.Demon Call 1 by Rosendo Manuel Fraga.Contact calls by Martin Solowiej.Guttural Calls by Mauricio Cuellar Ramirez (@Birding.travel) ..Squawking calls by Nick Athanas .Clicking Calls Jacob Wijpkema .Clicking Calls 2 by Niels Krabbe

The jazz musicians of the bird world, the Gray Catbird has both an impressive vocal repertoire and a unique ability to improvise. Join Dr. John in the summer woods of French Creek, West Virginia as he tells you everything you need to know about the Gray Catbird! While their vocalizations are the highlight, they also have some interesting breeding facts: especially their communal attitude towards other songbirds such as robins! Finally, their amazing evolutionary history is also explained in detail. Come learn about this bird right meow! .Intro song by Ricky Pistone, Outro by the Sidewalk Slammers..All bird calls are from Xeno-Canto.org .Intro Meow by Matt Wistrand.Catbird Song 1 by Matt Wistrand .Catbird Imitation by Richard E. Webster .Mockingbird song by Ron Overholtz.Brown Thrasher song by Richard E. Webster .Catbird Song 2 by Bobby Wilcox .Cat Meow Call: Russ Wigh .Alarm call by Richard E. Webster.Jay like call by Manuel Grosselat

Any radiohead fans out there? The Brown Creeper is often overlooked and underappreciated but it has a lot of cool bird facts to share! Parody songs aside, in this episode Dr. John tells you everything you need to know about a tiny bird of the deep coniferous woods of North and Central America. Learn all about their unique nesting behavior, their surprisingly large territory size (compensating for something?), and much more. ..Outro music by the Sidewalks Slammers: find them wherever you get your music.All bird calls are from Xeno-Canto.org.Intro song by Thomas G. GravesBrown Creeper song by Paul Marvin “trees beautiful trees” call by Ron OverholtzBrown Creeper High Pitched Call by Jarrod Swackhamer ..Karaoke version of “Creep” by Radiohead from Sing King on Youtube

These birds know how to party! Sporting flashy colors, cedar waxwings are always found in raucous groups gorging on food, chirping, and sometimes even getting drunk. Dr. John records outside in First Landing State Park while he tells you everything you need to know about Cedar Waxwings. Learn about how invasive species are changing their coloration, how they are able to survive on an almost exclusively fruit diet, and their perplexing evolutionary history. John read’s the scientific publications so you don’t have to and finds all the best facts to teach you about this fascinating bird species..Thanks to Diana for suggesting this episode!.Intro music by Ricky Pistone and outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers. Check them out wherever you get your music!.Bird Sounds from Xeno-Canto.orgOpening Call by Jeffery MannBzee call by Ted FloydSighing whistle call by Bobby Wilcox

Rodents beware! The White-Tailed Kite has a range that extends from California to South America and wherever it is rodents are on the menu. From mice to guinea pigs, these birds are basically the "Day Owls". In fact, they share several evolutionary adaptations in common with Owls! Learn all about the White-Tailed Kite in this festive episode of Dirty Bird Podcast...Intro music by Ricky Pistone and Outro music by The Sidewalk Slammers. Check them out wherever you get your music...All Bird sounds are from Xeno-Canto.org.Opening Call: Dante Buzzetti .see-yrk call: Nicole Alfaro Ponce.Chirp Call: Cristian Pinto Fernandez .Osprey Call: Lars Edenius .Grunt Call: Paul Marvin

Life is tough for an American Woodcock. You nest on the ground, everything wants to eat and shoot you, and your habitat is decreasing. Plus, even the ornithologists seem not to care about your evolution! On the plus side, migration is more of a swinging vacation than an arduous journey! Join John as he talks all about the American Woodcock's funny vocalizations and feeding behaviors, its conservation concerns, and its unique courtship display. Recorded on a breezy day in First Landing State Park, even a fox stops by to listen!.Thanks to dreamroux for suggesting this episode!..Intro music by Ricky Pistone and outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers..Birds sounds from xeno-canto.orgOpening Call by Jim Berry.Meep Call by Alex Lin-Moore.Up Close Call by Justin Watts.Flight Call Justin Saucier.Cackle by Paul Driver.Wing Whistle by Paul Driver

When you hear the haunting call of a common loon, you may feel alone and scared, but seeing this beautiful bird is sure to raise your spirits! Learn all about the many unique and beautiful calls of the Common Loon which can be found in lakes across northern America and also featured in many horror movie soundtracks. While it appears peaceful paddling on the water, these birds can be extremely violent during the breeding season. Join Dr. John as he explores the breeding, feeding evolution, and other fun facts about the Common Loon! . Thanks to Henson for suggesting this episode! . Thanks to Jessica Coker for providing the cover art! Follow her on instagram @thepsoreywing . Intro music by Ricky Pistone and Outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers. Check them out wherever you get your music . All Bird sounds are from xeno-canto.org Opening Call by Bruce Lagerquist Wail call 1 by Sunny Tsang All Bird sounds are from xeno-canto.orgOpening Call by Bruce Lagerquist Wail call 1 by Sunny TsangWail call 2 by Nicholas Comparato Tremelo call by Davyd Betchkal Tremelo call 2 by Lance A.M. BennerYodel call by Thomas ZgirskiYodel call 2 by Panvert Robin Hoot Call by Lauren Harter

Spend a few minutes learning about the Common Loon! Hear their unique vocalization, learn about their unique swimming mechanisms, and find out their hidden angry side. ..Intro music by Ricky Pistone.Cover art by Jessica Coker, follow her on instagram @theospreywing.All Bird sounds are from xeno-canto.orgWail Call by Sunny TsangTremelo call by Davyd Betchkal Yodel call by Thomas Zgirski

Did you know young frigate birds play like puppies? And that adults croon to each other like Barry White to get in the mood? Learn fun, fast facts about the breeding and feeding of this giant shore bird with Dirty Bird Shorties! Check out full length episodes for even more bird facts.All Bird Sounds are from xeno-canto.org.Begging Call by Ricardo José Mitidieri.Calling and bill snapping by Bobby Wilcox .Drumming by Leonardo Ordóñez-Delgado.Fighting sounds by Bobby Wilcox .Intro music by Ricky Pistone. Check him out wherever you get your music .Short clip of “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love Babe” by Barry White used

Magnificent Frigatebird? More like Massive Frigatebird! With huge 7 foot wings, a big red throat sack, and the longest breeding period of any sea bird, the Magnificent Frigatebird lives life large. It even will throw its weight around to steal food from all manner of creatures, earning its comparison to a frigate warship. Learn all about the life history, evolution, and population threats to this amazing bird of the tropics. .All Bird Sounds are from xeno-canto.org.Begging Call by Ricardo José Mitidieri.Calling and bill snapping by Bobby Wilcox .Drumming by Leonardo Ordóñez-Delgado.Fighting sounds by Bobby Wilcox .Intro music by Ricky Pistone and Outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers. Check them out wherever you get your music .Short clip of “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love Babe” by Barry White used

The (possibly recently!) extinct Elephant Birds were fittingly named. Not only were they the largest birds to ever live with eggs even bigger than dinosaur eggs, they also filled a vital niche in Madagascar similar to that of Elephants of mainland Africa. Learn all about the four extinct species of Elephant birds with John and Tim in this episode! We talk about their fossil record, amazing facts about their biology, their evolutionary history, and how they went extinct. Also, we cover the geological history of Madagascar and the arrival of the first humans to the island. Learn everything you need to know about Elephant Birds!.Thanks for the iTunes review RMbirder!.Big thanks to Astrapionte for providing the cover art for this episode! Find their artwork @strpit7108 on deviantart, youtube, and Reddit! .Also huge shout out to everyone who voted in the Dirty Bird Daryl poll, personalized shout outs to everyone in this episode!.Intro music by Ricky Pistone and outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers, find them wherever you get your music

In this 4th of July special, John talks all about America’s bird the Bald Eagle! While majestic appearing, the Bald Eagle has quite the bad reputation amongst those who have observed its habits up close, Benjamin Franklin even called it “very lousy”! But do its redeeming qualities make up for its sometimes nasty nature? Explore these topics as John tells you everything you need to know about the Bald Eagle! Also, the return of Punchy Joe who talks about the Bald Eagle pair that have spent 10 years raising young just off his dock. And a listener message from friend of the show Charlie! Learn about Bald Eagle Biology, their interactions with humans, how it became America's bird, Native american legends, about a Bald Eagle that fought in the civil war, threats to their population, and their evolutionary history. So put in your headphones, light up the BBQ, and press play on this episode! .Cover art by Jessica Coker! Check out all her work on her Instagram page @jessicacokerartist .Outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers, check them out wherever you get your music ..All bird sounds are from xeno-canto.orgBald Eagle Call 1 by: Steve HamptonBald Eagle Call 2 by: Davyd Betchkayl Bald Eagle Call 3 by: Paul MarvinOsprey Call by: Bruce Lagerquist Bald Eagle majestic call by: Russ Wigh Red-Tailed Hawk Call by: Peter Ward and Ken Hall Bald Eagle Capture call by Paul Marvin .Civil War music by adeluc4 from freesounds.orgNative American drum by sandyrb from freesounds.orgBird flap by agentDD from freesounds.orgLanding sound by yoyodaman234 from freesounds.org..Find dirty bird podcast Tshirts at https://www.teepublic.com/user/dirtybird-podcast

In this listener suggested episode, Dr. John talks all about the White-Throated Swift, a graceful aerial acrobat of the Western US. Learn about the aeronautical engineering behind its amazing flying abilities and how its death defying courtship dives sometimes get it in trouble. Also, did you know white-throated swift and tobacco chewing cowboys have something in common? Accompanied by the frogs and birds of First Landing State Park, John explores the feeding, breeding, evolutionary history, and fun facts of this amazing bird! ..Thanks to Charlie for suggesting this episode and providing pictures and videos of White-Throated Swifts he's taken!..Link for T-shirts: https://www.teepublic.com/user/dirtybird-podcast.Intro music by Ricky Pistone and Outro Music by the Sidewalk Slammers. Check them out wherever you get your music.Bird calls are from xeno-canto.org Intro Swift Call by Lauren Harter “Shrieked out” Swift notes by Thomas Magarian National Geographic description sounds by Thomas Beverly

Ricky is back! In between dumb puns, jokes, and laughs we learn about how the chicken went from prowling the jungles of Asia to being in backyards across the globe. Learn about the surprising intelligence of these birds, the different breeds of chickens, and what a wattle is. Get EGGcited! ..Intro music by Ricky Pistone and Outro Music by the Sidewalk Slammers. Check them out wherever you get your music

You can take the birder out of Iceland, but you can’t take Iceland out of the birder! John is joined by bird enthusiast Cass to discuss both of their experiences birding in Iceland. Along the way, John shares cool facts about birds such as the Artic Tern (Kria), Norther Fulmar (fyll), Pink Footed Goose, and many more. Learn about the gross defense mechanism of Fulmars, the carnivorous sheep of Iceland, and the epic ice age fight for survival of the pink footed goose. Also, plenty of tangents about non-bird related aspects of Iceland both John and Cass love. If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about the land of ice and fire, this episode is for you!.Cover art: John holds a juvenile redwing that fell out of a tree on him during a trot through the woods of Reykholt. The bird was returned to his perch safely! Hear the full story on the episode!..All bird sound are from xeno-canto.orgNorthern Fulmar Chuckle by: Stanislas Wroza European Golden Plover Call by: Michel VeldtPtarmigan Call by: Jens KirkebySnipe Drumming sound by: Herald Pfleger.Intro theme by Ricky Pistone and Outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers. Check them out wherever you get your music!

Much of the life history of Bachman’s Warbler is a mystery. It spent only four months in the American Southeast each summer before migrating to Cuba and often inhabited swampy, difficult to access environments. With its likely extinction in the 1980s, there’s much we will never know about this bird…but that doesn’t stop John from speculating! Using historical accounts dating back to the 1800s, information from preserved specimens, and inferences based on its close relatives, John tells you everything there is to know about Bachman’s warbler along with his own thoughts. Was Bachman’s Warbler a bamboo specialist, an ecosystem now almost entirely extinct in the US? Could Bachman’s Warbler can be a flower specialist in Cuba, like the honeycreepers of Hawaii? Also, could it still be out there? John and Bird Photographer and enthusiast Tanner think possibly so! Tanner joins John in this episode to discuss his own personal search for Bachman’s warbler in one of the few Canebrake ecosystems left in the US. ..The following bird calls are from xeno-canto.orgNorthern Parula call by NaomiChipping Sparrow by Manuel Grosselet Worm-eating warbler by Cristopher McPhersonBlack and white warbler zeep: Matt WistrandBachman’s warbler call record by Arthur A. Allen and Paul Kellogg, preserved on the Macaulay Library through the Cornell lab of Ornithology..Intro song sung by John Janousek, using “Taking Care of Business” instrumental from Drew’s famous classic rock instrumental version 2 Outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers

Although they only weigh as much as two apples, the 10 oz Bar-Tailed Godwit completes the longest non-stop flight of any bird species in the world! In this episode, John explores the evolutionary adaptations that allow the Godwits to complete this epic migration. Learn why they are more like Sumo Wrestlers than marathon runners, what they have in common with 18th century sailors, and all about their breeding, feeding, and evolutionary history. Accompanied by the natural sounds of First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach, John will make you say “oh my Godwit!” with these amazing facts..Special thanks to Jose for this weeks cover art! Also, check out his animated Gif by going to the Dirty Bird Podcast youtube page! Follow jose2myfriend on Instagram to see more of his amazing art.Intro music by Ricky Pistone and Outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers. Find them wherever you get your music.All bird calls from xeno-canto.org.Opening Godwit Alarm Call by Jacobo Ramil MillarengoGodwit saying its name call by Stanislas WrozaAsian Dowitcher Call recorded by funkerhunterGodwit Call by Stein O. NilsenFlight Song by Alan Dalton

Gavin is back! Join John and Gavin as they talk about their favorite local and exotic bird species, their dream birding locations, and defend their favorite penguin and ratite species. Plus, lots of jokes, tangents about nature and birding, and some minor philosophizing on life in general. This is a great laid back episode of Dirty Bird Podcast to put a smile on your face and get you in the mood to be out in nature! ..Intro music by Ricky Pistone and outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers. Check them out wherever you get your music

Ricky and John are back! In addition to lots of dumb jokes, bird puns, and impressions they explore how pigeons have been used in warfare, the world's most famous pigeon, how pigeons make milk, pigeon intelligence, pigeon breeding, and much much more. Plus....featuring special surprise guest Ricky's Dad! Its an episode full of bird facts and belly laughs. Learn all about this common but extremely cool bird, the Rock Dove (aka City Pigeon). ..Thanks Henson for your 50th episode shout out!..Intro song by: Ricky Pistone. Outro Song by: Ricky Pistone

The 50th episode! To celebrate, Dr. John talks with the creator of the Dirty Bird Podcast theme song and music video, Ricky Pistone. A skilled musician and video editor, Ricky is also John's lifelong friend and is full of bad puns, laughs, and dirty jokes. In this episode, we talk about a very misunderstood bird: the rock dove, better known as pigeon. Sometimes called "rats with wings" these surprisingly smart and talented birds can be found in any city in the world. In Part 1, John and Ricky explore the wild origins of pigeons, how they became domesticated and then ended up in our cities, the different breeds of domesticated pigeons, and the biology behind their navigational skills. Be prepared to learn and laugh along with Ricky and John! ..Thank you so much to everyone who wrote in to help celebrate the 50th episode! ..Intro song by Ricky Pistone, outro song by the Sidewalk Slammers. .Record scratch recording from freesound.org, recorded by Luffy

In this episode, Dr. John explores the life history of the Eastern and Spotted Towhee. While common birds in backyards and parks, there’s many interesting facts about them the average birder doesn’t know. Did you know their eye color varies with region? Or that humans and towhees share a microbiome? And what the heck do Towhees have to do with Shakespeare?! Listen to this episode to find out more! Dr. John reads all the research papers so you don’t have to! Learn everything you need to know about these two amazing bird species. .Learn about: The meaning of their scientific name, their feeding and breeding behaviors, what kind of habitats they prefer, their evolutionary history, causes of predation and disease, and how their population numbers are doing. All facts are supported by research and review of scientific articles. ..Bird calls used in the show are from xeno-canto.org Intro Eastern Towhee Song by Molly Jacobson Intro Spotted Towhee Song by Manuel Grosselet Towhee Saying its name by Caio BritoChewink call by John A. Middleton Jr. 2:00Drink your tea song by Christopher McPherson 17:00Communication call by Christopher McPherson Spotted Towhee song by Manuel GrosseletSpotted Towhee mew by Thomas Magarian Blue-Grey Catbird mew by Russ WighCombined chewink and song by Christopher McPherson Tea song with flair by Christopher McPherson ..Intro music by Ricky Pistone and Outro Music by the Sidewalk Slammers..Cover art used from the Public Domain

Vengeful owls, sloppy bears, and vultures hungry for human flesh: that's just another day on the job for Gavin, lead animal keeper for Maymont Foundation in Richmond, Virginia. Maymont is a free historic park located in the capitol of Virginia that features rescued and rehabilitated animals. Among these animals are several hawks, owls, and vultures that Gavin helps care for every day. Along with feeding them and administering medicines, Gavin also has meaningful and hilarious encounters everyday with these amazing animals. Join us for some laughs, learning, and a good time all around! Also, special shout out to Mohi!!!

Summer nights just wouldn't be the same without the ethereal call of the Eastern Whip-Poor-Will. Sadly, the nights are growing quieter as this bird's populations plummet. Learn the secrets of this elusive, nocturnal bird on this episode of Dirty Bird Podcast and why its numbers are declining. John combs through the latest research to discuss this big-mouthed bird's life history, vocalizations, and mysterious evolutionary history. Listen and learn about this bird! . All Bird calls are from Xeno-Canto.org unless listed otherwise . Whip-Poor-Will Intro Call: By Joseph Fell .Whip-Poor-Will Call 1: by Paul Marvin .“Summer night in Georgia” by jymdavis from freesound.org .Mexican Whip-poor-Will: by Scott Olmstead .Chuck-Wills-Widow: by Eric DeFonso .Pauraque: by Paul Driver .Whip-Poor-Will song 2: by Bruce Lagerquist .Whip-Por-Will song with Cluck by Martin St-Michel .Chuck call by Paul Marvin . . Outro Song by the Sidewalk Slammers

Eagles, Gorcrows, and Crebain…oh my! Throughout the works of J.R.R Tolkien, including Lord of the Rings, The Hobbit, Fall of Gondolin, The Simarillion, and Beren and Luthien, birds feature prominently. Some, like the Eagle, play a big role while other birds are more obscure. In this podcast episode, three life long friends and LOTR nerds discuss nearly every bird reference made in The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, Return of the Ring, and The Hobbit. They also explore birds throughout Tolkien’s many other works. Using a mixture of books and movie depictions, your dorky hosts have a lot of laughs and raunchy jokes while discussing the feathered folk of Middle Earth and the Undying Lands. Whether you’ve only seen the movies or can fluently speak elvish this episode will keep you smiling and learning. Find out more about the Eagles ancestry and deeds, Ravens relationship with dwarves, bird spies of Sauron, and the majestic swans of Ulmo and their relationship to Galadriel. Also learn a deep cut about Tom Bombadil and Kingfishers, Aragorn’s relationship with birds, and the possible meaning of the black swans. ..Also special shout outs to Podcasts that help pave the way for this episode including The Tolkien Road Podcast, The Prancing Pony Podcast, and The Lord of The Rings Minute Podcast. ..Intro Music By Ricky Pistone and Outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers. Check them out wherever you get your music...Cover art “Tuor and the Swans” by Eirwen98 from the Public Domain. ..If you liked this episode, please share, leave a review and subscribe! I really appreciate it

Everyone knows the Peregrine Falcon is the fastest animal alive, but do you know the physics behind what makes them so fast? Or about their soap opera worthy lives? With a beautiful dawn chorus of birds accompanying him, John tells you all you need to know about the Peregrine Falcon such as its feeding behavior, physical adaptations, breeding behavior, and evolutionary history. Packed with interesting stories and cool facts, this episode is sure to bring a pere-grin to your face! Featuring shout outs to tabbietnt for suggesting this episode, Jacob for leaving a review, Big Timber brewery for making great beer for birding, and Steve for writing in and sending a picture of a mourning dove nest! ..Intro music by Ricky Pistone and Outro Music by the Sidewalk Slammers. Check them out wherever you get your music!..Cover art photo taken by Jay Pogo..Peregrine Falcon sounds from www.xeno-canto.org. Intro Peregrine Call by SunnyAlarm Call by Patrik ÅbergCouple’s Calls by Lars EdeniusNestling call by Seth Beaudreault

Right now as you read this, you are probably inside of a death trap for birds. Moderns homes, schools, and offices are often fitted with expansive windows and while aesthetically pleasing to us humans, this is a huge problem for birds. The average residential house kills 3-5 birds per year, resulting in upwards of a billion bird deaths total in the US. But, there are solutions! Join John as he interviews Dr. Daniel Klem Jr. about his recent book Solid Air- Invisible Killer- Saving Billions of Birds from Windows. Dan has spent a lifetime researching and advocating for this underappreciated, but serious, problem for birds. Don't let your home, office, or school be a drain on bird populations! Learn how you can make your windows bird safe and also advocate for architecture that saves birds!

While technically songbirds, Shrikes are some of the most vicious predators in the bird world. Learn how they earned the nickname “Butcher Birds” through one of their morbid behaviors…this episode may not be for the faint of heart! Also, we explore the life history, evolution, feeding, and breeding of the Loggerhead Shrike. Did you know Loggerhead Shrikes have some pretty unusual breeding practices? If you’ve never seen this bird, it may be because its undergoing massive population declines throughout its North American range. But what’s killing Loggerhead Shrikes and what can we do to save them? This episode covers everything there is to know about the Loggerhead Shrike, listen and become an (unofficial) shrike expert! .. Cover Art Photo by Allen Schmierer, Public Domain ..Link for Dirty Bird Shrike T-Shirts!: https://www.rinoski.studio/shop...Theme Song by Ricky Pistone and Outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers .All Bird Sounds from Xeno-Canto.orgOpening Song of Loggerhead Shrike by Ed Pandolfino “Shriek” Call by Russ Wigh Robin with Cleft Tongue Shrike Call by Isain Contreras Rodriguez “Blue Sky through Angry Clouds” Song by Lance A.M. Benner Rusty Door Hinge Call by Jacob Saucier Clip of Gollum from “Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers” film 2002

In this episode of Dirty Bird Podcast, John explains nearly everything there is to know about the Mourning Dove. He’s also joined by the bird of First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach, Virginia who chime in while John records in this swampy woodland. Although these birds are very common (and actually the most populous bird in North America) they have many little known facts. Learn about surprising dove relatives as John explains their evolutionary history, find out how Mourning Doves and Cows share a common breeding strategy, and learn about the dazzling secret hidden in male Mourning dove plumage. With plenty of dumb jokes sprinkled in between, this episode is sure to keep you smiling while you learn. Check it out and tell a friend!..This episode was first suggested by Emily, thank you! If you have a bird you want John to do an in depth episode on, write him an email at [email protected] or on Instagram @dirtybirdpodcast..Big thanks to Jay Pogo for the cover art for this episode ..Also, remember to write a review on Apple Podcast! Write to John to receive some free Dirty Bird Stickers!..Intro music by Ricky Pistone, outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers. Check them out wherever you get your music. Be sure to watch the Dirty Bird Music video on youtube! ..Bird sounds are from Xeno-Canto.orgLoon call by Davyd Betchkal Great Horned Owl by Christopher McPherson Coo 1 by Manuel Grosselet Coo 2 by Christopher McPherson Dove Coo 3 by Bruce Lagerquist Coo 4 (female) by paul marvinWing Whistle 1 by David Darrell-LambertWing Whistle 2 by Phoenix BirderWing Whistle 3 by Thomas Magarian

Shoot the bird shit with John and Dack! Wildlife researcher and good friend of the show Dack joins John to explore the world of bird research. Dack explains how Ornithology is about more than just counting birds and explains how radar, satellites strapped on vultures, and even cloud cover can tell us a lot about our feathered friends. Dack also tells personal stories from his own lifetime spent in research and sheds some light on the darker side of wildlife research funding. And of course, it wouldn’t be Dirty Bird without lots of dumb laughs and jokes. See into the world of a wildlife researcher in this very special episode of Dirty Bird Podcast! References Mentioned by Dack in the Show:Internet of Wildlife - https://celltracktech.com/internetofwildlife/MODIS https://earthdata.nasa.gov/earth-observation-data/near-real-time/download-nrt-data/modis-nrtUsing cloud cover to research birds http://www.earthenv.org/cloudBiomass of Birds vs Humans https://www.pnas.org/content/115/25/6506Become a citizen scientist! https://ebird.org/homeWe’ve lost one in four birds since 1970 https://www.3billionbirds.org/Turn your backyard into a wildlife habitat https://homegrownnationalpark.org/ ..Intro music by Ricky Pistone and Outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers. Find them wherever you get your music

What’s black and white and smells all over? The Hoopoe (Pronounced Who-Poo) is a bird with a sneaky, stinky superpower- its basically a real life Pokemon! John and Tim tell incredible facts about this boldly colored bird while having lots of laughs along the way. Learn about its unique microbiome, evolutionary history, feeding and breeding. Also, find out how the Ancient Egyptians to Medieval monks have both praised and reviled this colorful critter. Special thanks to listener Seb who suggested I finally do an episode on a bird found in Europe! ..Thanks to Rob van Mourick for the cover art for this episode!..Intro music by Ricky Pistone, Outro music by the sidewalk slammers. Check them out on youtube and spotify..Hoopoe Song 1 by Romuald MikusekHoopoe Song 2 by Olivier Swift Hoopoe Song 3 by Karol KustuschAfrican Cuckoo song by Dries Van de LoockHoopoe Song 4 by Carles Guinart Madagascan Hoopoe by Ken Behrens Eastern Screech Owl by Dan LaneHoopoe interaction call by Jesus Carrion Hoopoe Rattle Call by Jarek MatusiakNestling begging call by Romuald Mikusek

John quests for a tribe of brown pelicans, recording from the shores of the Outer Banks of North Carolina. The ocean waves, gull cries, and occasional Brown Pelican sighting are the perfect backdrop for this information packed episode. While seemingly common coastal birds, Brown Pelican have an incredible life history and almost went extinct at one point! Debunk some common myths about these birds and some little known facts about their evolutionary adaptations that help make them the terror of sardines all over the world. ..Learn everything you need to know about Brown Pelicans! ..Thanks to Jessica Coker for this episodes cover photo! Find more of her photos at www.jessicacokerstudio.com..Intro music by Ricky Pistone and Outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers. Check them out wherever you get your music...All pelican nestling sounds are from xeno-canto.org Pelican Nestling Sound 1 by Manuel Grosselet Pelican nestling sound 2 by Isain Contreras Rodraguez

The Shoebill Stork is one of the most interesting species in the bird world. Standing at over 5 feet tall with a massive, hooked bill this creature would be a terrifying swamp monster...if it didn't look like a Muppet. Join Tim, John, and Larry the noisy dog as they learn about how the Shoebill Stork walks on water, engages in some extreme sibling rivalry, and makes sounds similar to a firing range. At Dirty Bird Podcast, we tell you everything you need to know about an individual bird species with fowl language included. Thanks to Amanda Canda for suggesting this episode! ..Cover Art By Peter Ganaj from Pexels, in Public Domain ..Sound Credit: Shoebill growling https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=noF-CLNSUZU&ab_channel=ThatsCrazyVideosShoebill bill clacking https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QFgYT3HfgP8&ab_channel=LazyReplays..Intro music by Ricky Pistone and outro music by The Sidewalk Slammers..Got a suggestion for a bird? Send a message to [email protected] or message on Instagram @Dirtybirdpodcast

What's black and white and dirty all over? An Atlantic Puffin in it's frat house burrow of course! Learn about these very social birds and their party-like breeding behaviors. This episode is full of strange and fun facts- like how puffin bills glow in the dark, how they may be on the diet for some deep sea monsters, and how they basically live in an underground frat house with other species. Also, my friend Hubert from Iceland talks about his experience visiting a puffin colony! Interspersed with folklore and evolutionary history, this episode is educational and entertaining for all you bird nerds and nature enthusiasts. ...Intro by Ricky Pistone and Outro by the Sidewalk Slammers..All bird sounds are from xeno-canto.orgPuffin Opener by Anthony McGeehanPufflin begging chirp by Stanislas WrozaPuffling scream by Rombout de WijsPuffin Wingbeats by Stanislas WrozaPuffin Moan by Irish Wildlife SoundsPuffin Grunts 1 by Stein Ø. NilsenPuffin Grunts 2 by Andrew HarropPuffin Grunts 3 by Stein Ø. Nilsen

Everyone has heard of herons and egrets, but bitterns get no love. That is, until listener Kayla suggested this episode on the American and Least Bittern! These shy wetland birds are easy to overlook but hold some amazing secrets. The American Bittern’s booming call and snow white breeding plumage patches make any day on the marsh magical while the Least Bittern’s feisty crest feathers and acrobatic antics give it a lot of personality. Learn how to identify the various calls of these two amazing birds. Using scientific articles, historical anecdotes, and the writings of John James Audubon I talk all about the feeding, breeding, and evolutionary history of these birds. Also, I unpack the mystery of the exceedingly rare Cory’s Bittern. Listen and learn!..See more of Kayla’s amazing photography at https://www.kaylalindquistphotography.com/..Also stay tuned at the end to hear an awesome review left by Chelsey on apple podcasts. Leave a review to claim your free Dirty Bird Podcast stickers!..Intro music by Ricky Pistone, check out all his music on Youtube. Outro music “NY Redneck” by the Sidewalk Slammers..All bird sounds from xeno_canto.orgLeast Bittern Rack-rack call by Paul Driver Least Bittern song by Paul Marvin Eurasian Bittern “Booming Call” by Susanne Kuijpers Least Bittern Call2 by John V. Moore Least Bittern Alarm Call by Dan Lane Least Bittern Cough Call by Daniel Lane American Bittern song by Jeff Dyck American Bittern song water by Frank LambertAmerican Bittern song with buildup by Jack Bowling

On a surface level, birds and fish may seem like they don't have a lot in common, but they are just two pieces of this lovely ecosystem we love to learn about. Join John and Katie on a special collaboration episode between DBP and the Fisherwoman Podcast. On the Fisherwoman podcast, fisheries researcher Katie Osborn discusses all kind of fish facts with experts in the field. In this episode, John and Katie swap facts on some of their favorite bird and fish species and discuss a very special ecosystem: wetlands! Learn about the first fish in space, what smelt really smell like, and much much more...Cardinal from the cover art comes from the very talented Tj Rinoski. Check out some of his artwork and Dirty Bird T-shirts at https://www.losesome-losesome.com/..Intro song by Ricky Pistone. Check out his Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/c/rickypistone..Outro music "NY Redneck" by the Sidewalk Slammers. Find them wherever you get your music

When you think of "man-eater" a few animals come to mind: Lions, Tigers, and Bears....but what about an Eagle that regularly takes down 300 pound prey? Oh my! ..In this episode of Dirty Bird Podcast, I talk with Tim about the now extinct but still terrifying Haast's Eagle, the largest Eagle to ever exist. According to Maori legend, this bird was known to prey on humans. We also talk about another extinct giant: Eyles's Harrier, the largest Harrier to ever exist. Why did New Zealand produce so many giant bird species? How did the Maori combat these fearsome creatures? And how crazy of a coincidence is it that the Eagles from Lord of the Rings actually seemed to exist on the very place where the movies were filmed?! Find out answers to these questions and more on Dirty Bird Podcast!....Reproduction of Haast’s Eagle call made by Piers Gilbertson and is from McPherson Natural History Unit Sound Archive. Other sounds from Freesound.org: Wind, synthesized, A by InspectorJ, Digging1 by cameronmusic , Maori Dawn Ceremony to from Te Atatū Sound Project recorded by simongray, Steps on wooden branch by julius_galla, Stabbing sound by Podcapocalipsis..Intro music by Ricky Pistone and Outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers. Check them out where ever you get your music. ..Send listener mail, recordings, or really anything to [email protected] and follow on instagram @dirtybirdpodcast for some great bird pics! ..Cover art from wpclipart.com and is in the public domain.

For tens of million of years giant, wingless birds thrived on New Zealand. When Kupe, one of the first Maori people, arrived around the year 1000 it was the closest to Jurassic Park human history has ever come. Learn all about how these amazing birds evolved, the unique characteristics of the 9 known species, and the story behind their unfortunate extinction. Semi-permanent guest host Tim joins me in the noisy Virginia Beach garage to squawk, laugh, and learn about a new bird. Sounds used in opening intro from freesound.org, thanks to Te Atatū Sound Project recorded by simongray, boats boats boats by Pfannkuchn, boat waves by Lydmakeren, chewing hard grass by tanapistorius, New Zealand birds background noises and Moa reconstruction from the Les McPherson Natural History Unit Sound Archive and created by David Clark. Stout-Legged Moa sound reproduction by the McPherson Archive and created by Te Papa. Cover art of the Upland Moa painted by Geroge Edward Lodge, photo is in public domain but accessed at https://www.goodfreephotos.com. Intro music by Ricky Pistone and Outro music by the Sidewalk Slammers. Check them out wherever you get your music.Send listener mail, voice memos, or episodes ideas to [email protected]. Find me on Instagram @Dirtybirdpodcast