Best Beginner Birdwatching Podcasts (2025)

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112: Brown-headed Cowbird Revisited - Laying Eggs In Other Birds' Nests! 32:14

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2d ago32:14

32:14

We’re revisiting our episode on the brown-headed cowbird, and trust me, this one’s a wild ride. Did you know cowbirds don’t build their own nests, but instead lay their eggs in other birds’ nests and let them do the parenting? Even birds that aren’t even close in size will get stuck raising the chicks of a brown-headed cowbird. Hosts John Bates, Sh…

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111: Project Phoenix with Olivia Sanderfoot and Allison Shultz - How Wildfires Are Impacting Birds 1:22:11

9d ago1:22:11

1:22:11

This week we’re excited to welcome two special guests—Olivia Sanderfoot and Allison Shultz—to talk about Project Phoenix. This important project is exploring how wildfire smoke impacts birds on the West Coast, and what that means for their survival in a rapidly warming world. Understanding these effects is critical for shaping conservation strategi…

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110: Red-headed Woodpecker - Catching Bugs Out Of The Sky + Paddleboard Sightings 43:27

16d ago43:27

43:27

Everyone loves woodpeckers, and the Red-headed Woodpecker is one of the coolest! Listen to what makes this bird unique, like hiding grasshoppers in trees to eat later (while they are still alive.) RJ also tells some paddleboarding mishaps, and talks about some molting mallards that he saw recently. Join RJ, Amanda, John, and Shannon this week to ta…

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109: Olive-sided Flycatcher - John Makes His Case For His Favorite Bird! 36:37

23d ago36:37

36:37

This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together, John takes the lead with his pick: the Olive-sided Flycatcher. Despite traveling the world and spotting hundreds of bird species, this flycatcher still holds a special place on his list of favorites. But not everyone agrees—his co-host (and wife) Shannon, also an ornithologist, isn’t convinced it’s suc…

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108: Blue-gray Gnatcatcher - Cute Bird With A Ton Of Personality! 38:07

1M ago38:07

38:07

Welcome back to Birds of a Feather Talk Together! This week, the full crew—John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Pole—are back to highlight one of North America’s tiniest and most charming songbirds: the Blue-gray Gnatcatcher. It’s Amanda’s pick this week, and she’s sharing why this lively little bird is one of her absolute favorites. If…

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107: Club-winged Manakin - Making Robot Noises with its Feathers 50:09

1M ago50:09

50:09

This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together, it’s Shannon’s turn to pick the bird—and she’s chosen one of the wildest species on the planet: the club-winged manakin. If you’ve never heard of this bird, do yourself a favor right now—stop what you’re doing and google it. Trust us, you’ll be amazed. The club-winged manakin doesn’t sing with its voic…

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106: Kingfishers Around The World with Jenna Mccullough 33:07

1M ago33:07

33:07

In this episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together, we welcome back Jenna McCullough, a third-generation birdwatcher from Boise, Idaho, with a PhD in Biology from the University of New Mexico. Currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Kentucky and soon to begin a prestigious National Science Foundation fellowship at the Natural Hist…

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105: Mailbag Episode! Birds On The Side Of The Road in Florida, and Sparrows in Pennsylvania 24:49

2M ago24:49

24:49

In this fun and fan-fueled episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together, we're diving into the mailbag to answer your burning bird questions! It's our usual hosts, married ornithologists John Bates and Shannon Hackett, and married birding enthusiasts RJ and Amanda Pole. First up: What’s the deal with all those birds hanging out in roadside water in …

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104: Guam Kingfisher with Jenna Mccullough 43:04

2M ago43:04

43:04

In this week’s episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together, we’re thrilled to welcome ornithologist Jenna McCullough to the show for a deep dive into one of the most endangered birds on the planet: the Guam Kingfisher. Once extinct in the wild, this striking bird—known for its bold colors and elusive nature—has become a powerful symbol of conservat…

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Season 3 Finale 36:08

2M ago36:08

36:08

Season 3 of the Bird Joy Podcast comes to a powerful close with hosts Dexter and Jason revisiting the highlights, laughter, and love that made this season unforgettable. From deep conversations on legacy and identity to global birding adventures, this episode is a celebration of nature, joy, and the people who make the outdoors a more inclusive spa…

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103: Inca Tern - Plus we talk about John's trip to Peru! 45:09

2M ago45:09

45:09

This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together, John is back from his unforgettable trip to Peru, and we’ve got plenty to talk about! From the incredible bird species he encountered to the vibrant landscapes, John shares highlights and stories from his adventure. We also dive into one of the most distinctive birds of the region — the Inca Tern — fam…

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Color in the Outdoors: A Heartfelt Conversation with Christopher Kilgour 1:01:24

2M ago1:01:24

1:01:24

In this powerful season finale of Bird Joy, Dexter and Jason sit down with their brother and longtime collaborator, Christopher Kilgour, a transformative leader in the outdoor community. Chris is the founder of Color in the Outdoors, steward of Piece of Mind Acres, and co-founder of the Underground Hiking Collective. From growing up near Tenney Par…

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102: Laughing Kookaburras with Jenna Mccullough 38:14

2M ago38:14

38:14

In this episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together, we’re diving deep into the world of kookaburras, the iconic laughing bird of Australia, with ornithologist Jenna McCullough. Jenna is a third-generation birdwatcher from Boise, Idaho, with a PhD in Biology from the University of New Mexico. She’s currently a postdoctoral researcher at the Univers…

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The World is Your Flyway: A Conversation with George Armistead 59:40

3M ago59:40

59:40

In this globe-spanning episode, we sit down with legendary birder George Armistead. This man has guided trips on all seven continents and made it his mission to craft wild and meaningful birding adventures. We discuss the roots of his passion, the power of group travel, the behind-the-scenes magic of The Life List podcast, and how birding culture i…

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101: Extremely Accurate Bird Songs with Tommy Siegel and Billy Libby 1:08:07

3M ago1:08:07

1:08:07

Get ready for the crossover event bird lovers can’t stop talking about! In this special episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together, we welcome the hilarious and musically gifted duo behind the Extremely Accurate Bird Songs Podcast—Tommy Siegel and Billy Libby. Join hosts John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart as we: 🐦 Listen to …

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Birds, Merlin, and the Future of Conservation with Dr. Miyoko Chu 56:30

3M ago56:30

56:30

In this episode of the Bird Joy Podcast, hosts Dexter Patterson and Jason Hall sit down with Dr. Miyoko Chu, Senior Director of Communications at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Dr. Chu is a powerhouse at the intersection of science, storytelling, and technology, known for her pioneering work on the Merlin Bird ID app and her beautiful, bird-inspir…

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100: Kingfishers with Jenna Mccullough 48:54

3M ago48:54

48:54

Jenna Mccullough is a third generation birdwatcher from Boise, ID. She got her bachelors at the university of Idaho (2015); got her masters (2018) and PhD (2024) at the university of New Mexico. She's a postdoc at the university of Kentucky and about to start a National Science foundation fellowship at the natural history museum of Los Angeles Coun…

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Nature, Cemeteries, and Bird Joy: A Conversation with Danielle Belleny 50:53

3M ago50:53

50:53

In this joyful and thought-provoking episode, Dexter and Jason sit down with Danielle Belleny, a wildlife biologist, birder, storyteller, and co-founder of Black Birders Week. Danielle is known for her ability to blend ecology, joy, and cultural reflection, and she encourages us to see nature in often-overlooked places, particularly cemeteries. Her…

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99: Marcel Rochon Interview: The Healing Power of Nature and Birding 1:17:37

3M ago1:17:37

1:17:37

We’re joined by a fan of the show who reached out with a heartfelt letter that really moved us. Our guest, Marcel, is a passionate birder with a story that is truly touching. From being a world-class athlete to navigating the challenges of a severe brain injury, he found healing and meaning in nature and birding. We’ll start by sharing the touching…

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Nature, Healing, and Finding Joy Through Community and Education with Nicole Jackson 56:49

3M ago56:49

56:49

In this episode, Dexter and Jason are joined by Nicole Jackson, environmental educator, urban birder, nature photographer, and co-organizer of Black Birders Week. Nicole shares her journey into environmental education, the healing power of nature, and her passion for making outdoor spaces more inclusive. From grassroots work in Ohio to national ini…

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98: Peter Kaestner Interview - Seeing 10,000 Bird Species In The Wild! 1:34:04

3M ago1:34:04

1:34:04

This week, we have a truly special guest—Peter Kaestner, the first person in history to see over 10,000 bird species in the wild. It’s a mind-blowing achievement. Peter took us on an unforgettable journey through his life as a birder, and how his career as a diplomat allowed him to travel the globe. He shared incredible stories—like birding in Colo…

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On-Site with the Soaring Eagles: STEMM, Marshes & Bird Joy in Toledo 45:18

4M ago45:18

45:18

In this special on-the-road episode, Dexter and Jason visit the Soaring Eagles of Chase STEMM Academy in Toledo, Ohio, for an inspiring conversation with 6th and 7th-grade student ambassadors. Just steps from Manhattan Marsh, these young scholars are exploring nature, STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, and Medicine), and their big dream…

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97: Orange-tufted Spiderhunter 35:10

4M ago35:10

35:10

We’ve got a fun one for you this week as we get ready for a very special guest: Peter Kaestner—the first person to see 10,000 bird species in the wild. We speak to him next week. To prep for that epic conversation, we're taking a closer look at the bird that earned him that milestone: the Orange-tufted Spiderhunter. Spoiler alert—Amanda was not imp…

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Nature, Healing, and Representation with Dudley Edmondson 54:12

4M ago54:12

54:12

In this inspiring episode of the Bird Joy Podcast, hosts Dexter and Jason sit down with renowned photographer, author, filmmaker, and speaker Dudley Edmondson. With a career spanning over 30 years, Dudley has captured nature's wild beauty and redefined who belongs in those wild spaces. From the Arctic Circle to inner-city green spaces, Dudley's wor…

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96: Black-capped Chickadee - Cute Bird with a Mighty Brain 58:01

4M ago58:01

58:01

In this episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together, we dive deep into the fascinating world of the Black-capped Chickadee—one of North America's most beloved birds. Discover the secrets behind the chickadee's distinctive “chick-a-dee-dee-dee” call, its remarkable memory, and how this tiny bird survives harsh winters with clever food-storing habits…

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Joy, Justice & Birding with Corina Newsome 57:07

4M ago57:07

57:07

We’re celebrating Black Birders Week with a very special guest: Corina Newsome — wildlife biologist, conservation scientist, and one of the original co-organizers of the first Black Birders Week in 2020. In this inspiring episode, Corina joins Dexter and Jason to talk about her journey from zookeeper to passionate advocate for environmental justice…

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118 Season Finale - with the Weekend Birder Community 21:08

4M ago21:08

21:08

Celebrate the joy of birdwatching together. This episode features listener stories, curious questions, and bird recordings from the Weekend Birder community. It’s a heartfelt wrap-up to the season, featuring moments from listeners around Australia and a special dawn chorus recording. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/118-seas…

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95: Ruby-throated Hummingbird Revisited 35:45

4M ago35:45

35:45

In this episode of Birds of a Feather Podcast, we revisit one of our favorite past episodes all about the ruby-throated hummingbird—a truly fascinating and fast-flying species known for its shimmering feathers and incredible migration. Join hosts John Bates and Shannon Hackett, along with RJ Pole and Amanda Marquart, as we dive back into the world …

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The Joy of Vultures with Kojo Baidoo 48:33

4M ago48:33

48:33

In this episode, Dexter and Jason sit down with Kojo Baidoo — a 23-year-old birder, Princeton graduate, and self-proclaimed vulture enthusiast — to explore how one young conservationist is flipping the script on one of the most misunderstood birds in the skies. Kojo shares how his birding journey began in Maryland and took flight during his time st…

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117 Dawn Chorus - with Andrew 30:13

4M ago30:13

30:13

Listen to the world around you. This episode explores deep listening, learning from birds, and what makes the Australian dawn chorus so unique. Sound recordist Andrew Skeoch shares the wisdom of wild soundscapes and how tuning into nature can change the way we live, think, and feel. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/117-dawn-…

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94: Blackpoll Warbler Revisited - Epic Migration and More About Warblers 40:53

4M ago40:53

40:53

This week, we're revisiting a listener favorite all about Blackpoll Warblers—tiny birds with an absolutely epic migration. Whether you're new to warblers or already a seasoned birder, this episode is packed with fascinating facts and fresh insights. John and Shannon dive into what makes the Blackpoll Warbler’s journey so mind-blowing, and John give…

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The Art of Nature with Shane Alden 50:49

4M ago50:49

50:49

In this inspiring episode of The Bird Joy Podcast, Jason and Dexter sit down with Shane Alden Edwards, better known online as The Wild Dryad. A self-taught illustrator and botanist, Shane has captured the hearts of over half a million nature lovers through his vibrant educational content centered on plants, ecology, and outdoor learning. From early…

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116 Broken Hill - with Anika 24:09

5M ago24:09

24:09

Take a trip to the Australian outback. This episode explores the unique birds of Broken Hill and the work of a farmer who cares deeply for wildlife and the planet. Dr Anika Molesworth shares how farming, climate action, and bird conservation can go hand in hand. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/116-broken-hill-with-anika 🎵 E…

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93: Great Potoo, we also talk Prothonotary Warbler and Answer A Question on Robin's Eggs 51:48

5M ago51:48

51:48

This week, we dive into the weird and wonderful world of the Great Potoo—a mysterious nocturnal bird with haunting eyes and an even stranger call. Ever wondered why robin eggs are blue? We’ve got the answer! Plus, we spotlight one of North America’s most stunning songbirds: the Prothonotary Warbler, known for its brilliant yellow plumage and swampy…

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Riding on the Wings of Joy with Dr. J. Drew Lanham 1:05:16

5M ago1:05:16

1:05:16

The second episode of The Bird Joy Podcast features hosts Dexter Patterson and Jason Hall in conversation with their "dream guest," Dr. J. Drew Lanham, a distinguished wildlife ecologist, professor, poet, and author. The episode delves into Dr. Lanham's deep connections to nature, starting with his childhood on The Home Place and the influence of h…

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115 Casual Birding - with Suzy 29:08

5M ago29:08

29:08

Look at Australian birds with new eyes. In this episode, English birdwatcher and podcaster Suzy Buttress shares her birding adventures, her love for connecting with people through birds, and her favourite places to go birding in the UK. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/115-casual-birding-with-suzy 🎵 Sulphur-crested Cockatoo …

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92: Wood Ducks: Nesting Behavior, Baby Ducklings & a Surprise Owl Sighting 1:03:39

5M ago1:03:39

1:03:39

In this nature-packed episode, we dive into the fascinating world of Wood Ducks—one of the most beautiful and iconic duck species in North America. Learn about their striking plumage, unique nesting habits, and the incredible moment when day-old ducklings leap from tree cavities to join their mother on the ground. We also share a recent encounter w…

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91: How NSF Budget Cuts Are Threatening U.S. Science – A Deep Dive with Ornithologists 31:18

5M ago31:18

31:18

In this timely and urgent episode, we explore the devastating impact of recent budget cuts and defunding of the National Science Foundation (NSF) on the U.S. scientific community. Originally planning to discuss Wood Ducks, our conversation quickly shifted to the broader crisis facing science in America today. Join married ornithologists John and Sh…

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Welcome Back! 55:03

5M ago55:03

55:03

We're back! In the Season 3 premiere of Bird Joy, your favorite birding buddies reunite to catch up, share what’s new, and get pumped for the peak of spring migration. From exciting bird sightings to major personal milestones—including Dexter’s new book and In Color Birding Club’s website launch—this episode sets the tone for an inspiring and vibra…

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114 Bird of Prey Q&A - with Steve 18:05

5M ago18:05

18:05

Get to know birds of prey on a whole new level. In this Q&A episode, raptor expert Stephen Debus answers listener questions about eagle parenting, prey, plumage morphs and more – sharing insights from a lifetime studying Australia’s birds of prey. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/114-bird-of-prey-qa-with-steve 🎵 Bird of prey…

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90: American Dipper - Bird that Walks Under Water 48:40

5M ago48:40

48:40

This week we are talking about one of the coolest birds in North America: The American Dipper. This is a smaller nondescript bird that has learned and adapted how find food in some of the roughest river water imaginable. It can fly through waterfalls, withstand rushing currents, and to the eye just looks like a little gray songbird. John and Shanno…

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113 Birdwatching for All - with Ian and Julie 23:12

5M ago23:12

23:12

Discover the joys of birdwatching with limited mobility. This episode is about two birders who make birding accessible, including for those in a wheelchair, and the wonderful nature discoveries they've made along the way. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/113-birdwatching-for-all-with-ian-and-julie 📸 Instagram - https://www.i…

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112 Bird Videos - with Scot 27:18

5M ago27:18

27:18

Learn how to record video footage of birds. This episode is about a passionate ornithologist, conservationist and film-maker who has some great advice about creating bird videos. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/112-bird-videos-with-scot 🎵 Paradise Riflebird recording by Marc Anderson - licenced from https://www.wildambience…

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88: Spotted Towhee - Bright Red Eyes! 33:23

5M ago33:23

33:23

This week we talk about the Spotted Towhee. RJ and Amanda saw them on their trip to Sedona, and thought it would be a fun bird to learn more about. Hosted by John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart. Please send us your questions for us to answer as well! You can send them to [email protected] Make sure to follow us…

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89: Red-Ruffed Fruitcrow 46:07

5M ago46:07

46:07

If you listened to our series on the Feather Thief, or read the book, you are familiar with the Red-ruffed fruitcrow. It was also called the Indian crow in the book. We wanted to follow up the series to talk more in depth about one of the birds that was mentioned so much, and it was pretty fascinating to learn more about this bird that actually has…

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111 Fairywren Quest - with Maggie 20:50

6M ago20:50

20:50

Try a different form of birdwatching. In this episode, amateur naturalist Maggie Galbraith shares how slowing down and staying local helped her learn more about birds – including the stunning White-winged Fairywren. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/111-fairywren-quest-with-maggie 🎵 White-winged Fairywren recording by Marc An…

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87: Gambel's Quail - Sedona, topknots, and who was Gambel? 56:56

6M ago56:56

56:56

In this exciting episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together, we dive into the fascinating world of the Gambel's Quail – a stunning bird spotted by RJ and Amanda during their recent trip to Sedona, Arizona. With John’s Arizona roots, this bird-focused adventure made for the perfect topic, and trust us, it’s one you won’t want to miss! But that's no…

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110 Slow Birding - with Joan 16:45

6M ago16:45

16:45

Try a different form of birdwatching. In this episode, biologist Joan Strassmann shares how slowing down and paying attention to common birds can reveal extraordinary insights. Learn how the Slow Food movement inspired her to take a more thoughtful approach to birding – and how you can too. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/1…

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86: Hoatzin Revisited with Jacob Drucker - You've Seen It On 'The Americas' on NBC 24:01

6M ago24:01

24:01

In this episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together, we dive deep into the world of the Hoatzin, one of the most unique and mysterious birds on the planet! With claws on their wings as chicks, these fascinating creatures might even offer a glimpse into the distant past of dinosaurs. Join our expert panel, including John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ P…

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109 Tasmania - with Ramit 21:13

6M ago21:13

21:13

Adventure to Australia’s southern island. In this episode, Tasmanian tour guide Ramit Singal shares what it’s like to lead birdwatching trips, why he loves pelagic birding, and how citizen science connects people to the natural world. 🎧 All links here - https://www.weekendbirder.com/podcast/109-tasmania-with-ramit 📸 Instagram - https://www.instagra…