One of the best films of 2025 was a documentary you’ve probably never heard of (unless you’re a birder). It’s Listers, a low-budget gem that raced through the birding community like suet through a Downy Woodpecker, though you don’t have to be a birder to enjoy it. The film, which takes its name from the […]
birding
Posted inNews
Reclaiming the Klamath, Blue Lake Recall and Birding at Sea
This week we’re sharing a story from Underscore Native News about Indigenous youth paddling down the undammed Klamath River in a celebration of historic restoration. We’ve also got an update on the recall effort in the city of Blue Lake and what it means for the embattled city council going forward. Finally, take an ocean […]
Posted inLife + Outdoors
Birds of the Sea(sick)
A few weeks ago, I learned two very import things. First, the vast Pacific Ocean is home to numerous unusual and wonderful bird species. Second, they belong out there. I almost certainly do not. But when you’re on a quest to see at least 300 bird species in Humboldt County in a single year, at […]
Posted inLife + Outdoors
The Enviably Thick-skulled Woodpecker
This election has left many of us a bit shaken in our beliefs and buffeted by fear and doubt. The yammering and hammering are unrelenting. Never has a bird that smashes its head into wood up to 20 times a second been more relatable. We all could use thicker skulls these days. If only we […]
Posted inLife + Outdoors
Temporary Insanity
I’ve been a pretty casual birder all my life. I do a little birding every day and often take photos, but seldom range far afield. Sometimes I chase local rarities if they’re easy to get to; I’d rather listen to a Giants game from my cushy recliner than tromp through brambles and poison oak for […]
Posted inLife + Outdoors
Ask Miss Birding Manners
Whether you’re new to birding or have been around the mudflats a few times, navigating the unspoken nuances of birding etiquette is probably something you’ve had to learn on the wing. If only there were a resource to guide you toward more courteous interactions with the birds you seek — and the humans you meet […]
Posted inLife + Outdoors
A Chime of Wrens
One of the prettiest places that my dog and I like to explore is the lower section of the Arcata Ridge Trail where it follows Janes Creek. Even though it’s not far from the industries that line West End Road, it feels remote, unspoiled and serene. But not quiet. Today the Pacific wrens were bursting […]
Posted inLife + Outdoors
Bird Names for Everyone
Of all the birding news stories that came down in 2023, perhaps none was more unexpected than the American Ornithological Society’s (AOS) decision to change the names of up to 152 North American bird species, eliminating honorific and eponymous names. That means so long, Steller’s jay. Bye-bye, Brewer’s blackbird. Hasta la vista, Heermann’s gull. Why? […]
Posted inLife + Outdoors
Spark Birds
Those of us who are besotted with birds can often trace our interest back to one particular bird, our “spark bird.” Seeing that bird ignited a fascination with the species that’s impacted our lives in myriad ways, from where we live to what we do for a living and how we spend our free time […]
Posted inNews
Censored Stories, AI Moguls and Visiting Birds
This week we share Project Censored’s annual Top 10 stories, which, not surprisingly, cover lots of damage to the environment and corporate greed. We’ve got an update on the FBI investigation into local embezzlement charges, some satire about AI and tips for birders while you’re our looking for the marsh’s Floridian visitor. Hit subscribe for […]
Posted inLife + Outdoors
Birding Facts and Myths
Once you get hooked on birding, you might be surprised to discover it’s not just about birds. You’ve studied the field guides. You’ve listened to so many bird song recordings you chirp in your sleep. Now you’re thinking about taking your obsession, er, hobby to the next level. Perhaps, while you’ve been watching birds, you’ve […]
Posted inLife + Outdoors
Birding with Dogs
One of the things I enjoy most — besides birding and Giants baseball, of course — is spending time outdoors with my dog Aggie. In a perfect world, I’d be able to combine two out of the three and look at birds with Aggie by my side. But our attempts thus far have been, well, […]