In this episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together, we’re diving deep into the remarkable world of the Black-billed Magpie—one of North America’s most intelligent and visually striking birds.

Hosts RJ Pole and Amanda Pole share firsthand stories from their time living in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, where encounters with Black-billed Magpies were part of everyday life. Known for their bold personalities, problem-solving skills, and dazzling black-and-white plumage with iridescent blue-green feathers, these birds are anything but ordinary.

Field Museum ornithologists John Bates and Shannon Hackett join the conversation to break down what makes Black-billed Magpies so fascinating—from their advanced intelligence and social behavior to how they thrive across western landscapes. Whether you’re a dedicated birder or just curious about wildlife, this episode offers expert insights and engaging storytelling you won’t want to miss.

Plus, we answer a fun listener question in our Q&A segment: wombat poop vs. bird poop—yes, we really go there.

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This week, we’re diving into one of North America’s most unforgettable birds: the Acorn Woodpecker.

After spotting Acorn Woodpeckers near the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, RJ couldn’t stop thinking about these bold, clown-faced birds—and for good reason. Known for their incredible food-storage behavior, some Acorn Woodpeckers have been documented hoarding hundreds of pounds of acorns, drilling thousands of perfectly spaced holes into trees, utility poles, and even the sides of people’s homes. It’s one of the most extreme examples of avian teamwork and planning in the bird world.

Joining the conversation as always are Field Museum ornithologists John Bates and Shannon Hackett, alongside birding enthusiasts RJ Pole and Amanda Pole, bringing both expert insight and curious questions to the table. Together, we explore Acorn Woodpecker behavior, social structure, intelligence, and what makes this species such a standout among North American woodpeckers.

Along the way, there’s also a little Midwest sports banter—including the surprising realization that the Indiana Hoosiers might actually have a real football team this year.

If you love woodpeckers, bird behavior, ornithology stories, or just enjoy fun, science-driven conversations about nature, this episode is for you. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or brand new to birdwatching, this Acorn Woodpecker deep dive is equal parts educational and entertaining.

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This week, we’re diving into one of the strangest and most unforgettable birds in the world: the Calfbird. Found in the forests of northern South America, this bizarre species is famous for its bald head, striking blue skin, and an otherworldly call that sounds like a chainsaw. Even wilder? The Calfbird produces that sound using a mechanism similar to how a bullfrog vocalizes—making it a true standout in avian biology and animal sound production.

Join married ornithologists John Bates and Shannon Hackett, along with bird-loving co-hosts RJ Pole and Amanda Pole, as we explore Calfbird behavior, vocalizations, habitat, and why this species continues to fascinate scientists and birders alike.

We also answer a listener question about Snowy Owls, adding even more birdwatching insight to the episode.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder, a science enthusiast, or just love learning about weird and wonderful wildlife, this episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together is packed with memorable bird facts, expert knowledge, and plenty of fun along the way.

🎧 Listen now and discover why the Calfbird might just be one of the most bizarre birds you’ve never heard of—until now.

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