Birds
This page features articles and video presentations about Alberta's birds. See our Featured Species page for information on other species.
Dancing Without a Stage – The State of the Greater Sage-Grouse
BY TIMOTHY SHAPKA
As of 2020, the Alberta population of greater sage-grouse was estimated to be 72 individuals — down from the thousands that were present when we started keeping track in 1968. Timothy Shapka reviews the causes of the decline and what is being done to recover the species.
Read MoreRare Alberta Birds Get Close Scrutiny
The Alberta Bird Record Committee (ABRC) is the body responsible for evaluating records of rare birds in the province. It periodically publishes the results of its deliberations, and its newest report, the thirteenth in the series, is now available. The report documents the Committee’s decisions on almost 90 records of bird rarities that have been recorded in the province over a span of about six years.
Read MoreOut of Sight: How Scientists are Listening in on Nature in Alberta
BY RICHARD HEDLEY
Imagine being a biologist: do you want to go on a long difficult journey to reach a site to conduct a breeding bird survey at dawn…or wheel your rollie chair over to your desk to use an acoustic survey? What are the cons of this scenario, if any? And how does it stack up to traditional surveys?
Read MoreBirding the Badlands
BY RYAN WILKES WITH HEATHER BLANCHETTE
Despite the barren landscape that is often associated with the badlands, the valley accommodates a lively riparian forest. This ecosystem makes the river valley a popular birding spot for local naturalists and visiting birders alike.
Read MoreWhy Are Common Loon Chicks Becoming Less Common?
BY KRISTIN BIANCHINI
Measuring loon productivity is also an excellent indicator of lake health. As top predators, loons are sensitive to damage at lower levels of the food chain. For example, processes that decrease the number of fish in a lake can cause food shortages, especially for young loons. Being a top predator also makes loons more vulnerable to pollutants, like acid rain and mercury.
Read MoreEastern Kingbirds
BY MYRNA PEARMAN
Eastern kingbirds belong to a group of birds known as the tyrant flycatchers, and the Latin name of this species, Tyrannus tyrannus, reflects their pugnacious nature.
Read MoreDo all birds migrate in the fall?
Not all birds seek a warmer place for the winter, learn more here!
Read MoreWhat are bird bands?
Learn about the brightly coloured bands you see on bird’s legs!
Read MoreHow can we keep birds safe?
Keep cats safe and save birds lives!
Read MoreWhat bird has the farthest migration?
Migration is something that many birds do every year! Find out who goes the farthest!!
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