Science

New Study Doubles the World’s Number of Bird Species By Redefining 'Species'
December 15, 2016 — A modified definition of 'species' suggests there are nearly 20,000 different kinds of birds, but the model is controversial and difficult to apply to conservation.
Scientists Discover First Mummified Example of a Feathered Dinosaur Tail
December 09, 2016 — The rare, amber-encased fossil, which belonged to a young coelurosaur, tells a new story about feather evolution.
Is the Acadian Redfish Helping Puffins Adapt to Climate Change?
December 09, 2016 — As Atlantic herring follow cooler waters north, rebounding redfish populations have become a vital source of food for some puffin colonies.
A Tiny Parrot Wearing Goggles Is Teaching Scientists How Birds Fly
December 08, 2016 — A daring experiment, led by a bird named Obi, is overturning what scientists know about how birds stay airborne.
What Exactly Are Flamingos Anyway?
December 05, 2016 — Are they herons? Some type of ibis? And why are they pink?
Under Metallic Starling Colonies, Wildlife Gather for Impromptu Feeding Frenzies
December 02, 2016 — More than 40 species—including rare cockatoos and tree snakes—are drawn to these pop-up ecosystems during Australia's monsoon season.
Get Lost in These Entrancing Photos of Exotic Museum Specimens
November 30, 2016 — For a recent project, artist Ernest Goh took inspiration from naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace and the Malay Archipelago's rich faunal history.
The Clever Ways Common Redpolls Survive Harsh Northern Winters
November 28, 2016 — Instead of flying south, these birds hunker down—and eat a lot.
The Common Swift Is No Longer the Fastest-Flying Animal
November 21, 2016 — And here's a surprise: It wasn't even dethroned by another bird.
Why Frigatebirds Can't Float
November 21, 2016 — The seabirds can stay aloft over the open ocean for months, but they don't really have a choice.