Why Do Birds Take Dust Baths?
Birds take dust baths to maintain their feathers. Dust helps remove oils and debris, and new research shows sand-particle impacts can dislodge feather mites.
Why Do Birds Spread Their Wings in the Sun?
Birds spread their wings in the sun to warm up, dry wet plumage and maintain feathers; research also suggests sunning can help control feather lice in some species.
Why Do Birds Fluff Their Feathers? Warmth, Preening & Rest
Birds fluff their feathers to trap insulating air, maintain and rearrange plumage, rest, and recover after getting wet. Learn how context reveals what the posture means.
Is Birdwatching Good in the Rain? What Weather Changes
Birdwatching can be worthwhile in light rain, and migration weather can create excellent post-storm birding. Learn when rain helps, when birds shelter, and when to stay home.
What Is the Best Time of Day for Birdwatching?
Early morning is the best general starting point for birdwatching, but raptors, shorebirds, owls, nighthawks, tides and weather can shift the ideal time.
Birding Ethics: Distance, Playback, Nests & Private Property
Practice ethical birding with practical guidance on distance, playback, nests, rare-bird locations, photography and private property.
eBird for Beginners: How to Submit a Useful Checklist
Learn how to submit a useful eBird checklist: location, protocol, effort, counts, complete-list rules, uncertain IDs and common beginner mistakes.
How to Use Merlin Bird ID More Effectively in the Field
Use Merlin Bird ID more effectively with a field workflow for Step-by-Step ID, Photo ID, Sound ID, Explore Birds, offline use and confirming uncertain suggestions.
