The Science of Birds

Ivan Phillipsen
  • 4.8 (790)
  • NATURE
  • UPDATED SEMIMONTHLY
The Science of Birds

The Science of Birds is a lighthearted exploration of bird biology. It's a fun resource for any birder or naturalist who wants to learn more about ornithology. Impress your birding friends at cocktail parties with all of your new bird knowledge! Hosted by Ivan Phillipsen, a passionate naturalist with a PhD in Zoology.

  1. MAY 31

    How to Identify Birds in the Field

    In this practical episode about birding skills, Ivan Phillipsen dives into the process of bird identification. Listeners are introduced to a five-step framework for figuring out which bird species they’re observing. Ivan walks through how to use shape, location, behavior, coloration, and detailed field marks to gradually narrow down a bird’s identity. The episode highlights how our brains are naturally equipped to categorize and name things, and how even beginners often know more about birds than they realize. Ivan encourages listeners to start locally, study bird families, and pay attention to habitats and seasonal patterns.  While modern technology like the Merlin Bird ID app can fast-track identification, Ivan makes a case for the joy and deeper learning that come from using traditional methods. He acknowledges the real-world challenges of tricky species groups, vagrants, and hybrids, but invites listeners to embrace these challenges as part of the journey. Bird ID, he reminds us, is not just a means to an end—it’s one of the most rewarding aspects of birding itself. Links of Interest Birding by Impression [BOOK]The Art of Bird Identification [BOOK]Peterson Guide to Bird Identification—in 12 Steps [BOOK] ~~ Leave me a review using Podchaser ~~ Link to this episode on the Science of Birds website  Bird Conservancy of the Rockies [Learn More] 👕 Bird Merch —  Get yourself some bird shirts! Support the show

    45 min

  2. MAY 12

    Nightjars, Nighthawks, and Other Goatsuckers

    In this episode, Ivan Phillipsen takes listeners on an immersive journey into the strange and secretive world of birds in the family Caprimulgidae. These cryptically colored, nocturnal birds include nightjars, nighthawks, poorwills, and whip-poor-wills. Ivan reveals the fascinating biology of this group—everything from their frog-like gapes to their odd names and eerie calls. Listeners will learn about the distinctive physical traits and behaviors that define caprimulgids, including their specialized eyes for low-light vision, aerial insect-hunting strategies, and mating displays involving wing claps and booming dives. Ivan also explores their global distribution, evolutionary history, and conservation status, while highlighting standout species like the Lyre-tailed Nightjar, the Common Poorwill, and the elusive—and possibly nonexistent—Nechisar Nightjar. This deep dive into Caprimulgidae is packed with scientific insights and fun facts. Whether it’s unpacking myths of goat-milking birds or listening to spooky vocalizations from around the world, the episode celebrates the mystique and diversity of these birds that thrive in the twilight. ~~ Leave me a review using Podchaser ~~ Link to this episode on the Science of Birds website  Bird Conservancy of the Rockies [Learn More] Bird Merch —  Get yourself some bird shirts! Support the show

    58 min

  3. APR 22

    How to Find Birds

    In this episode—which is number 115—Ivan Phillipsen guides listeners through the art and science of finding birds—a skill that even seasoned birders are always refining. While birds are everywhere, intentionally locating them in nature can be surprisingly difficult. Ivan breaks down bird-finding as a multi-scale strategy, starting from intercontinental trip planning all the way down to spotting a skulky sparrow in a dense bush. With insight from a decade of leading birding tours and inspiration from Pete Dunne’s book The Art of Bird Finding, this episode is packed with practical tips. Learn how to use digital tools like eBird, iNaturalist, and Google Maps to research hotspots and track species movements. Ivan also explores daily and seasonal bird activity patterns, offering advice on when and where to look based on habitat, weather, and migration timing. Real-world examples—from birding trips in Chile to last-minute local outings—illustrate how preparation can dramatically boost your chances of success. The episode includes a look at field techniques, including how to scan effectively with your eyes and ears, the importance of subtle movement, and how to use binoculars without missing your target. Ivan also discusses ethical considerations around using playback and the dynamics of birding in a group. Whether you’re new to birding or chasing your 5,000th lifer, this episode has tools, tips, and inspiration to sharpen your skills in the field. Links of Interest The Art of Bird Finding [BOOK] ~~ Leave me a review using Podchaser ~~ Link to this episode on the Science of Birds website  Bird Conservancy of the Rockies [Learn More] Bird Merch —  Get yourself some bird shirts! Support the show

    1h 14m

  4. APR 7

    The Osprey

    In this episode—which is Number 114—host Ivan Phillipsen dives into the world of the Osprey (Pandion haliaetus)—a bird that’s all about fish. With a global distribution and a singular place in the avian family tree, the Osprey is both biologically unique and instantly recognizable. Ivan explores this raptor’s physical traits, from its distinctive wing shape to its powerful, semi-zygodactyl feet designed for grabbing slippery prey. Listeners will also learn about the Osprey’s evolutionary history, its cosmopolitan range, and the adaptations that allow it to thrive on a diet of pretty much just fish. The episode touches on the Osprey’s conservation story—one of dramatic decline and hopeful recovery—underscoring how this bird serves as a vital indicator of aquatic ecosystem health. Whether you’ve seen an Osprey hover over a lake or are just discovering this raptor for the first time, this episode offers a deep, fascinating look at one of the most iconic birds on the planet. Links of Interest Osprey in Scotland diving in slow-motion [VIDEO]Bald Eagle steals fish from Osprey [VIDEO] ~~ Leave me a review using Podchaser ~~ Link to this episode on the Science of Birds website  Bird Conservancy of the Rockies [Learn More] Bird Merch —  Get yourself some bird shirts! Support the show

    59 min

  5. MAR 21

    Traditional Field Guides vs. Mobile Apps: A Birder's Dilemma

    In this episode—which is number 113—host Ivan Phillipsen explores the fascinating crossroads of tradition and technology in the world of birding. With a mix of personal anecdotes and professional insights, he dives into the enduring charm of printed bird field guides and the meteoric rise of mobile birding apps. Whether you’re a seasoned birder with a weathered Sibley guide or a tech-savvy explorer armed with Merlin, this episode will resonate with your bird-loving heart. Ivan takes listeners on a thoughtful tour of how both tools have evolved over time—from the early days of illustrated field books to the AI-powered, globe-spanning apps of today. Each format is examined through multiple lenses: usability, identification features, natural history information, and emotional value. As the episode unfolds, listeners are invited to weigh in on this modern dilemma: pages or pixels? The conversation raises important questions about the future of birdwatching tools and what they mean for the next generation of birders. ~~ Leave me a review using Podchaser ~~ Link to this episode on the Science of Birds website  Bird Conservancy of the Rockies [Learn More] Bird Merch —  Get yourself some bird shirts! Support the show

    50 min

  6. MAR 14

    From the Field: Patagonia

    In this "From the Field" episode, which is number 112, host Ivan Phillipsen shares his recent experiences birding in Patagonia while leading a two-week tour through this remote and breathtaking region. Speaking from Puerto Varas, Chile, he provides an immersive account of the landscapes, birdlife, and unique ecology of Patagonia, spanning both Argentina and Chile.  Ivan explores the geography of the region, highlighting the towering Andes, vast Patagonian Steppe, and dramatic glacial fjords. He also dives into the region’s ecological dynamics, including the stark contrast between the lush Magellanic subpolar forests and the arid steppe, shaped by the relentless Patagonian winds.   Ivan recounts the group’s birding adventures, from the southernmost city of Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego National Park to the legendary Beagle Channel, where they encountered Magellanic and Gentoo Penguins. Throughout the journey, the group pursued an ambitious goal—spotting all eight bird species with “Magellanic” in their name.  Ivan also highlights memorable moments, such as an unforgettable sighting of a Snowy Sheathbill, a leucistic (partially albino) Scale-throated Earthcreeper, and a massive Andean Condor scavenging scene on the Patagonian Steppe.   Ivan reflects on why this wild and remote region captivates him, from its evolutionary history and glacial landscapes to its unique yet sparse biodiversity.  ~~ Leave me a review using Podchaser ~~ Link to this episode on the Science of Birds website  Support the show

    1h 4m

  7. FEB 16

    Crossbills

    In this episode, which is number 111, Ivan Phillipsen explores the fascinating world of crossbills, a unique group of finches with an extraordinary beak adaptation. These birds, found across North America, Europe, and Asia, use their specialized crossed bills to extract seeds from conifer cones—a skill few other birds possess.  Ivan discusses the six recognized crossbill species, their distinct feeding strategies, and how their beaks evolved for this specialized diet. The episode highlights the complex classification of crossbills, particularly the Red Crossbill, which has multiple "call types" that may represent different evolutionary paths. Ivan explains how these birds are nomadic, moving vast distances in search of conifer seed crops, and how some species, like the Cassia Crossbill, have adapted to specific tree species. The episode also covers the recent debate in the ornithological community about whether certain crossbill populations should be considered full species. Additionally, Ivan discusses how crossbills’ courtship behavior, nesting habits, and vocalizations vary among species. Links of Interest  Crossbills of North America: Species and Red Crossbill Call TypesWhite-winged Crossbill feeding [VIDEO]  ~~ Leave me a review using Podchaser ~~ Link to this episode on the Science of Birds website  Bird Conservancy of the Rockies [Learn More] Bird Merch —  Get yourself some bird shirts! Support the show

    53 min

  8. FEB 1

    Cooperative Breeding in Birds

    In this episode—which is number 110—Ivan explores the fascinating world of cooperative breeding in birds, a system in which multiple adults help raise young in a group setting. He begins with an intriguing story from the Kalahari Desert, where Southern Pied-Babblers resort to “chicknapping” during droughts to bolster their flock size.  Ivan then broadens the discussion, examining the global distribution of cooperative breeding among bird species and the evolutionary mechanisms that drive this behavior. He introduces key scientific concepts, such as inclusive fitness and kin selection, to explain why some birds delay their own reproduction to assist relatives. Additionally, he covers various hypotheses, from ecological constraints to life history strategies, that influence the evolution of this breeding system. Featured examples of cooperative breeders in the episode include the Florida Scrub-Jay, Acorn Woodpecker, and Superb Fairywren, each of which showcases the complexity and diversity of this strategy in different environments.   ~~ Leave me a review using Podchaser ~~ Link to this episode on the Science of Birds website  Bird Conservancy of the Rockies [Learn More] Bird Merch —  Get yourself some bird shirts! Support the show

    1h 2m
See All (117)

4.8
out of 5
790 Ratings

About

The Science of Birds is a lighthearted exploration of bird biology. It's a fun resource for any birder or naturalist who wants to learn more about ornithology. Impress your birding friends at cocktail parties with all of your new bird knowledge! Hosted by Ivan Phillipsen, a passionate naturalist with a PhD in Zoology.

Information

  • Creator
    Ivan Phillipsen
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    117
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Science of Birds
  • Show Website
    The Science of Birds

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