Will's Birdbrain

There are approximately 50 billion birds in the world. There are approximately 8.2 billion humans on earth. That is about 6 birds for every person. With that kind of ratio it isn't hard to see how there are a lot of different birds that are common birds for people around the world. The Will's Birdbrain Podcast is dedicated to uplifting the amazing lives of average every day birds, such as the navigationally gifted rock dove, or the wickedly clever American crow. But there is something Will didn't quite consider when creating this show - these are common birds to him. Over the years he has seen listenership grow and has been surprised to see data coming in from all over the world! To celebrate this diverse group of listeners this episode is dedicated to the common and iconic outside of the United States! Joining him for this exciting special episode is none other than fan favorite guest star, Kayta!Kayta and Will buckle in for a whirlwind adventure around the world where they learn about the common and iconic birds of the six other continents, from the most populous bird in the world, the red-billed quelea, to the bizarre secretary bird. As always, these birds are much more than meets the eye!Are you listening from somewhere outside of the United States? If so, please reach out to tell Will where you're tuning in from either on Instagram or via email! This episode is for you, so hopefully you hear about a bird you see often! Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories!--> Will's Birdbrain Instagram Page Youtube Will's Birdbrain Shop

Have you ever been to a National Wildlife Refuge? Do you know the difference between a National Wildlife Refuge and a National Park? If not, this is the episode for you! Will is joined by Gaby from America's Wildlife Refuges, a nonprofit charged with advocating for and maintaining America's National Wildlife Refuge system. This is no small task - there are over 500 refuges in the country! Together they will share stories about visits to National Wildlife Refuges and try and teach you all about why you should care about these awesome places. This episode also corresponds nicely with the new Will's Birdbrain YouTube channel! On the channel, titled Will's Birdbrain, Will visits his local parks to share history, folklore, and more, all while explaining how special and unique the land in your own backyard can be. What creatures are hidden just out of sight? Head on over to YouTube after you listen to this episode and checkout the series Will's Wild World on the WBB channel!Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories!--> Will's Birdbrain Instagram Page Youtube Will's Birdbrain Shop

"Yank-yank-yank!" That means your birdfeeder is empty in nuthatch! In this episode Will introduces you to the nutty brains of two very familiar sights in the United States - the red-breasted nuthatch and the white-breasted nuthatch! These common birdfeeder birds are known for their acrobatic movements and penchant for hanging upside down. Tune in for some amazing facts about the lives of nuthatches, and tips for identifying them in your backyard!Also explored is the curious history of bird feeding. Where did the modern birdfeeder design come from? Who was the first bird feeder? All of these questions and more will be answered. Do you have a birdfeeder? If so, you'll get some fun tips for attracting nuthatches to your feeder!Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories!--> Will's Birdbrain Instagram Page Youtube Will's Birdbrain Shop

Ready for a trip to the Cedar Waxwing Museum? You'll learn an "ear-full" in this episode all about the little silken heroes! Cedar waxwings are a bird that is a familiar sight during the darkest, loneliest time of the year due to their penchant for short migrations. These birds are incredibly social and tend to have a little too much fun at bird parties. Have you ever seen a flock gorging themselves on berries? In this episode Will explores the complex social habits of cedar waxwings and details a couple of fascinating theories biologists around the world have put forth to explain said behavior. Also shared are a few outrageous fun facts, some that just may light up your face. So come on in, no ticket necessary for the Cedar Waxwing Museum!Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories!--> Will's Birdbrain Instagram Page Will's Birdbrain Shop

Do you know someone you wish cared about birds like you do? Have you ever wondered how to appropriately share rare bird locations? If so, this is the episode  for you! Doug Hitchcox, a Naturalist with the goal of “getting the most people to see the most birds” joins Will for an engaging discussion about the state of "birding." Doug works towards his goal in his professional life, with over a decade of experience as a professional Naturalist working for conversation-based organizations, and personal life, through his educational Youtube channel which explores the curious nuances of the world of birding. Clearly, this passion for birds follows him wherever he goes. Many funny stories and interesting anecdotes are shared, hopefully you can keep up!  Doug's Youtube Page: @dhitchcoxBe sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories!--> Will's Birdbrain Instagram Page Will's Birdbrain Shop

Attention loyal listeners! Will is going on his annual summer podcasting break! Don't worry, the second half of season three will be here as soon as you can say "the ivory-billed woodpecker is gone forever." In the meantime, here is a bonus episode all about Will's favorite bird and birding moments. Some of the stories just may surprise you!Want to share your own favorite birding moment? Head on over to the WBB Instagram account! There is a video posted asking all to comment their favorite bird experiences. Comments will be shared on the WBB Insta so everyone can share in the joy. Let's hear your favorite moments! Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories!--> Will's Birdbrain Instagram Page Will's Birdbrain Shop

Attention intrepid birder! Uncle Sam wants YOU to learn about the bald eagle! Join Will as he describes the adventurous, independent, free lives of the bald eagles of the USA. From building gigantic villas of nests, to exploring the nation for years before settling down, bald eagles are much more than your average bird. Also explored are the roots of bald eagle symbolism in American culture. Why is the bald eagle the USA's national bird? Were any other birds considered? What about the native people of the Americas, did they revere eagles at all? You bet! Also shared is a story from the Lenni Lenape tribe about acknowledging good opportunities when they come to you. Make sure you do your patriotic duty and fly on into this episode of the Will's Birdbrain Podcast! While you're at it, please consider leaving a rating or review. It greatly supports the show, and provides encouragement to keep producing episodes! Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories!--> Will's Birdbrain Instagram Page Will's Birdbrain Shop

Want to take a hike with Will's Birdbrain? If the answer is yes, you are in luck! This episode was recorded live on a hike in Westbrook, Maine! Try listening to this relaxing journey when you are unwinding after a long day, try and picture the unique creatures discussed and heard, and imagine the strange plants described... If you enjoy this more "freeform" type of episode be sure to check out the WBB Patreon page! There are exclusive episodes posted there that are similar to this one! This episode Will is joined by relief printmaker Lia, AKA Portmantoad Prints. Lia's work seeks out the silliness in nature and attempts to confuse the limits between plants, animals, and people. Will and Lia discuss how humans have used art as a means of connecting to nature for thousands of years, and the value of creating art today- for money or for the love of it!  Grab a cozy hot beverage, turn down the lights, and imagine you are in a misty forest in southern Maine. You are walking with Will's Birdbrain and his curious guest as they explore the intersections between humanity, nature, and art... oh an bonus points if you can identify all the birds heard in the background by ear! You've been warned, there is a catbird in there at one point!Lia's Webpage: Portmantoad PrintsLia's Instgram: portmantoad.printsBe sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories!--> Will's Birdbrain Instagram Page Will's Birdbrain Shop

This episode is sweet as nectar because it is all about the ruby-throated hummingbird! Hummingbirds are tiny creatures that have captured the hearts and minds of humans for centuries. They live fast and often die young, making sure to pack in a ton of adventure and excitement while they are around. What can hummingbirds teach us about these way we live our lives? In this episode Will also explores Aztec lore regarding Huītzilōpōchtli, the sun god that often appeared to the native Mexicans as a hummingbird. Who knew such a fierce god would take such a humble form! What other surprises may await in this episode?  Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories!--> Will's Birdbrain Instagram Page Will's Birdbrain Shop

Let's be real, we've all had the dream of being a veterinarian at one point or another. Most of us may have had that dream during childhood, but veterinarian technician Morgan held fast and is living that dream! Morgan joins Will to talk about her journey to becoming a vet tech, share stories from her adventures in the world of conservation, and discuss the role of pets in our lives. This is the first episode of Flock Talk, episodes that are exclusively interviews and conversations with people associated with the world of birding! Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories!--> Will's Birdbrain Instagram Page Will's Birdbrain Shop

A long time ago in a park far way... dozens of European starlings were released, forever changing the avian landscape of North America! Tune in to episode one of season three of the Will's Birdbrain Podcast, Starling Wars to learn how European starlings came to reside in the United States, what impacts they have on the locals, and maybe even a reason or two to appreciate these often villainized birds. May the forest be with you, birders!  Welcome to season three of the Will's Birdbrain Podcast! This season we'll be discovering the ways birds influence not only human culture, but the natural world as well, and exploring the amazing hidden wonders right under our noses. This season episodes will be separated into themes - "birds" and "birding." The "birds" episodes will be like this one, solo narration with sound effects and music. The "birding" episodes will be conversations between Will and guests from the birding world focusing on how birds influence our way of life. These elements of the WBB Podcast were split up so neither overshadows the other! Thank you for listening, and of course, keep looking up! Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories!--> Will's Birdbrain Instagram Page Will's Birdbrain Shop

Ready to discover the amazing world of your own backyard? Keep listening to the Will's Birdbrain Podcast to discover how!Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories!--> Will's Birdbrain Instagram Page Will's Birdbrain Shop

Ready to wind down after a great day of birding? Here's Will's Birdbrain Bedtime Stories Vol. 1 to help you fall asleep and dream about birds! Inside you'll find the following tales: The Nightingale (1:08) The Alkonost and the Siren (19:00) The Story of the Bluebird (26:25) Thank you very much for a wonderful season 2! Please accept this Christmas gift to you. Season two was certainly more focused on the conversation portion of the discussion, but I do love telling you stories. I tried to select a fun variety for this collection, they're a bit sad, a lot hopeful, a little creepy. Let me know which is your favorite, and if you'd like a volume 2! See you next year! Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories!--> Will's Birdbrain Instagram Page Will's Birdbrain Shop

Knock knock - who's there? - season - season who? - no, season two finale!   Season two has been quite the journey! From learning about migratory butterbutts, to vibin' out to the chill beats of Stressers, every episode has been a fantastic conversation with knowledgeable guests, but at times they got a little heavy. Talking about hard sciences and social issues can be equal parts rewarding and draining. Because of that, sending  off season two is a fun-filled light hearted episode full of jokes and stories! Fan-favorite guest Kayta joins Will for a goofy conversation about the adorable downy woodpecker! Downy woodpeckers are friendly, fascinating common birds. Where do they live? What do they eat? How do you identify them when they look so similar to other species? Kayta and Will address all of this and more between some pretty silly bird jokes. Some of the jokes shared in this episode were sent in from WBB Instagram followers! Their handles are: @birds_of_bean@missus.blunt@danature.pnw@birder_ksThe Story of the Maple Tree Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! --> Will's Birdbrain Instagram Page Will's Birdbrain Shop

Are you afraid of the dark? How about ghosts or zombies? If these spooky terrors don't send a shiver down your spine tune into this chilling Will's Birdbrain episode to discover something truly terrifying – the possibility of extinction! In true classic horror movie fashion, this is a drive-in double feature episode showcasing two birds of the day and a very special guest, uncle Jared, host of Ghostlore of Hawaii: Paranormal Paradise! The Ghostlore of Hawaii is a paranormal-themed podcast covering Hawaii's ghost stories, folklore, ancient mythology, and true crime. First, Will and Jared learn about the Nene, Hawaii's state bird. The nene was once abundant on the islands of Hawaii before disaster struck… Next up the common myna swoops in to share the spotlight, bringing with it a trail of destruction. Both birds call Hawaii home today but can they learn to coexist? Will and Jared then compare the history of these resident birds to the people of Hawaii, yesterday and today. How has the culture of Hawaii changed over the years? What shocking threats loom over the heads of residents? To close us out Jared shares a terrifying story from his show, Ghostlore of Hawaii, which can be found wherever you get your podcasts (trigger warning: self-harm). Happy Halloweeeeeen!! Want to support these two independent podcasters? Consider joining the Ghostlore of Hawaii's Patreon for bonus episodes, supplemental show updates, and more! https://www.patreon.com/ghostloreofhawaiiGhostlore: https://www.ghostloreofhawaii.com/Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=enGot a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say what's up! Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.comWill's Birdbrain has merch! Consider grabbing a sticker or two of your favorite common bird! Proceeds will go straight into funding more episodes and spreading the joy of birding!Shop - https://www.etsy.com/shop/WillsBirdbrain?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=1361667746Love the show, consider supporting me on Patreon! Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked. I cannot do it without you.Click the link to sign up: https://www.patreon.com/willsbirdbrainHuge shout out to Kayta, Catherine, Josh, Shane, Margi, and Karene for being Patrons and keeping the common critters in mind!Support the show

Ornithology. Herpetology. Mammalogy. When you hear these words what do you think of? You're probably aware of the meaning behind the suffix “ology,” meaning “the study of,” which may make you think these words solely refer to rigorous scientific study, test tubes and all. What if I told you an ology such as ornithology, the study of birds, doesn't have to be so alien. Joining Will is Meg, a socioecological researcher and scientist whose work has taken her far and wide exploring the connection between people and nature, and creatures and nature. This episode explores a common yet awe-inspiring, giant bird- the great blue heron! GBH are adored throughout North America for their ability to transport people back to the prehistoric era and experience what it may have been like to witness dinosaurs. Will and Meg discuss some quirky facts about heron nesting, confusingly similar subspecies, and a whole lot of other cool, herony facts! After learning about the GBH it's easy to see how a tiny spark of interest in the scientific world, or birds, can ignite a lifelong passion for learning! Great blue herons are key indicator species- species with a lot of data on them which can be used to gauge the health of an ecosystem. What kind of DIY research can you conduct relating to this important bird? Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=enGot a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say what's up! Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.comWill's Birdbrain has merch! Consider grabbing a sticker or two of your favorite common bird! Proceeds will go straight into funding more episodes and spreading the joy of birding!Shop - https://www.etsy.com/shop/WillsBirdbrain?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=1361667746Love the show, consider supporting me on Patreon! Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked. I cannot do it without you.Click the link to sign up: https://www.patreon.com/willsbirdbrainHuge shout out to Kayta, Catherine, Josh, Shane, Margi, and Karene for being Patrons and keeping the common critters in mind!Support the show

Owls are possibly the most mysterious of all birds. They have captivated the minds of man for thousands of years, resulting in countless myths and legends about their peculiar behavior. Perhaps the most mysterious of all owls is also the most common owl and the most widespread landbird in the world, the barn owl!Join Will and Leslie, a budding birder, as they discuss why you should give a "hoot" about the barn owl. These curious critters are deadly killing machines, but that doesn't mean they aren't facing their own challenges of human making. Come learn about the barn owl's almost supernature senses, social behaviors, threats they face, and more!Leslie adds to the spookiness with stories from her Tejano/Mesoamerican background, including the story of the infamous lechuza, the shapeshifting owl-witch. Turn on your nightlight and hug the comforter extra tight this episode as owl's more bizarre and eerie cultural legends are discussed. Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=enGot a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say what's up! Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.comWill's Birdbrain has merch! Consider grabbing a sticker or two of your favorite common bird! Proceeds will go straight into funding more episodes and spreading the joy of birding!Shop - https://www.etsy.com/shop/WillsBirdbrain?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=1361667746Love the show, consider supporting me on Patreon! Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked. I cannot do it without you.Click the link to sign up: https://www.patreon.com/willsbirdbrainHuge shout out to Kayta, Catherine, Josh, Shane, Margi, and Karene for being Patrons and keeping the common critters in mind! Support the show

Did you know? Will's Birdbrain not only celebrates the common birds you may see every day but the common people you see everyday as well! Over the course of the podcast my guests and I have highlighted specific ways you can live and breathe birding simply by existing. From making movies featuring birds to studying them professionally, everyone can use their experience to uplift the voice of the voiceless. This sentiment can be applied to the supplemental theme of Will's Birdbrain as well- birding is for everyone! This episode is about making noise, something today's bird of the day is very good at doing! Joining me is Dara Wilson, a conservation communications specialist who has used her voice to make the world of birding a better place for marginalized people in her community. Dara  is a naturalist, science educator, and co-chair of the Black Birders Week Advisory Group. Together Will and Dara discuss a bird you hear would likely hear before you see- the blue jay! These chatty rabble-rousers are much more than meets the eye, and can teach us a thing or two about helping the friends around us. Want to watch Will's discussion with black podcasters during Black Birders' Week as mentioned in this episode? Check the link here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBl3hBftA3Y&list=PL3NlhCdvgOprn4XbEKO8EEu4ob-ZdpqUB&index=7Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=enGot a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say what's up! Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.comWill's Birdbrain has merch! Consider grabbing a sticker or two of your favorite common bird! Proceeds will go straight into funding more episodes and spreading the joy of birding!Shop - https://www.etsy.com/shop/WillsBirdbrain?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=1361667746Love the show, consider supporting me on Patreon! Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked. I cannot do it without you.Click the link to sign up: https://www.patreon.com/willsbirdbrainDon't forget to keep up with the common critters!Support the show

The content of this bonus episode was described as "my manifesto." I believe birding is for everyone- not just black folk, not just white folk, or able bodied people, or otherwise.  I was prompted to write this episode after attending a birding event in Maine as the only young person of color, an oh so familiar experience for me. This episode not only describes the challenges non-white, non-retiree birders face, but how we together can make birding more accessible and inclusive. With the help of dedicated nonprofits and old fashioned teamwork, Thank you so much for supporting my passion for getting young people of color outdoors! Shout out to my buddies from the Maine Maritime Museum, Luke, Sarah, and Paul! Their work (mentioned in this episode) is a great example of a positive step forward for inclusion, accountability, and action. Will's Birdbrain will return with more birdbrained facts in no time! Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=enGot a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say what's up! Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.comWill's Birdbrain has merch! Consider grabbing a sticker or two of your favorite common bird! Proceeds will go straight into funding more episodes and spreading the joy of birding!Shop - https://www.etsy.com/shop/WillsBirdbrain?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=1361667746Love the show, consider supporting me on Patreon! Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked. I cannot do it without you.Click the link to sign up: https://www.patreon.com/willsbirdbrainDon't forget to keep up with the common critters!

Hello Birdbrains! Season two has been so fun! We've learned about science, compared hobbies, and even gone on an adventure in Montana! Let's take a moment to appreciate the journey thus far and look back on some highlights from the first half of season two. Kayta, our very own WBB beginner birder, has graduated to intermediate birder between seasons and has returned to share her thoughts on the first half of season two. This is a special bonus episode- it was recorded outside in the park with birds chirping all around us! I wanted to give this conversation a more natural vibe, with minimal editing and sound effects. I hope you enjoy our reminiscing! Will's Birdbrain will return with more birdbrained facts in no time! Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=en Got a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say what's up! Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.com Will's Birdbrain has merch! Consider grabbing a sticker or two of your favorite common bird! Proceeds will go straight into funding more episodes and spreading the joy of birding!Shop - https://www.etsy.com/shop/WillsBirdbrain?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=1361667746Love the show, consider supporting me on Patreon! Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked. I cannot do it without you. Click the link to sign up: https://www.patreon.com/willsbirdbrainDon't forget to keep up with the common critters!

Have you ever been overwhelmed by traveling? The streets are confusing, people speak a different language than you, your usual creature comforts are gone. In the midst of travel stress there's always one thing that is sure to bring comfort- the sight of a familiar bird, such as the bird of the week, the yellow-rumped warbler! This episode Will joins Shane Sater of the Wild With Nature podcast as he recollects a storied encounter with yellow-rumped warblers in Helena, Montana. These birds are quite well traveled, with migrations spanning across North America. During their travels butterbutts encounter all sorts of perilous challenges, but also find sweet rewards along the way. Together the pair explore how these tiny birds aren't so different from us and find ways to empathize with their journeys. Check out Shane's show as well, and his nature blog here: https://wildwithnature.com/ From Shane: "Welcome to Wild With Nature (previously What's Going On Out There?), a community-funded storytelling project exploring wonder, connection, and meaning through the natural world around us.¡Haz clic aquí para seguir en español!The stories of nature are both incredibly particular to place and also universal.The amazing migrations of yellow warblers and monarch butterflies, for example, can connect us with people and landscapes thousands of miles away—and with the intricate ecologies of our own neighborhoods."Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=en Got a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say what's up! Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.com Will's Birdbrain has merch! Consider grabbing a sticker or two of your favorite common bird! Proceeds will go straight into funding more episodes and spreading the joy of birding!Shop - https://www.etsy.com/shop/WillsBirdbrain?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=1361667746Love the show, consider supporting me on Patreon! Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked. I cannot do it without you. Click the link to sign up: https://www.patreon.com/willsbirdbrainDon't forget to keep up with the common critters!

Making music is in our bones. From  the ancient bone flutes of the first human settlements to advanced electronic melodies crafted in megacities, people have always found a way to create music.  Birds are much the same, especially the ultimate representation of springtime and singing, the American robin! Will is joined by Ben, the musical mastermind behind Stressers, a vibey electronic dance music act. Together the pair release the album of the century, Round Robin Singalong! The musical creative process is the topic of this episode, exploring how and why humans create song. This theme is then compared the the American robin as we discuss how robins hand their song down generation after generation, why they sing, and other cool facts to convince you to love these common critters! Throughout the episode enjoy the lovely sound of Stressers between segments. Like what you hear? Check out Stressers at https://stressers.bandcamp.com/album/oystervilleBe sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=en Got a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say what's up! Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.com Will's Birdbrain has merch! Consider grabbing a sticker or two of your favorite common bird! Proceeds will go straight into funding more episodes and spreading the joy of birding!Shop - https://www.etsy.com/shop/WillsBirdbrain?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=1361667746Love the show, consider supporting me on Patreon! Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked. I cannot do it without you. Click the link to sign up: https://www.patreon.com/willsbirdbrainDon't forget to keep up with the common critters!

House sparrows are one of the most common birds in the world. They are found on six of seven continents, from the densest urban landscapes to the most remote of islands. What makes them so common? Their Do-It-Yourself lifestyles! This episode Will throws on his handmedown toolbelt and talks shop with Luke, a master of DIY craftsmanship. Luke discusses the value in building your own items, and what it takes to make a house a home. Together we explore how house sparrows are not so different from people, repurposing vacated nests into homes like we do with rental properties, and even acquiring roommates to cut on the cost of living!  House sparrows are divisive birds. They're an invasive species throughout the planet and have aided in the downfall of countless native species by consuming their food or driving them out of their natural habitat. However, I believe it is important to acknowledge these are lifeforms themselves worth respecting. They got to every corner of the earth by joining humans on their colonial journey, so who is really to blame? This episode acknowledges house sparrow's destructive nature, but asks you, dear listener, to consider some empathy for them as birds and creatures that deserve to live. Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=en Got a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say what's up! Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.com Will's Birdbrain has merch! Consider grabbing a sticker or two of your favorite common bird! Proceeds will go straight into funding more episodes and spreading the joy of birding!Shop - https://www.etsy.com/shop/WillsBirdbrain?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=1361667746Love the show, consider supporting me on Patreon! Click the link to sign up: https://www.patreon.com/willsbirdbrainYour support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! If you liked the show, please consider dropping a rating to show your support. Got suggestions for improvement, those could be added to a review! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked. Don't forget to keep up with the common critters!

You may have hear about pigeons serving in World War II, but did you hear Will's Birdbrain is now on Patreon? Patreon is a premium subscription platform that allows people to support the independent artists they love. For as little as $5.00 a month you can help Will's Birdbrain continue spreading the wonder of common birds to the masses. What can you expect from the WBB Patreon? At any level of subscription you get access to the Patreon feed. The feed has bonus WBB content from every angle- photography, podcast information, bonus episodes, and other cool things related to birding! You may also subscribe for higher tiers giving you access to even cooler stuff, like merch sent directly to you every month, custom bird art, and even a guest spot on the show!However, the most important part of Patreon for me is the intimacy. I want to get to know my audience. I want to hear about the common birds you see, what you think of the podcast, and make a more personal connection with you all as encouragement to keep going. I'll be doing livestreams, posting polls, and constantly asking for your thoughts on things. Head over now to check out the existing polls to get an idea for the type of content being posted. It's easy to join Patreon. Click the link below for direct access to my platform. You will be able to sign up on your phone or computer painlessly and access all content from whatever device you use. Content like did I mention, entire bonus exclusive podcast episodes! See you there! Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/willsbirdbrainPS- tiny note about the owl facts... some of them can move their heads slightly more less around, and move their eyes a little more than others... still pretty dramatic though!

It's a bird... it's a plane... how the heck do either stay up in the sky like that?! Episode one of season two focused on birds using their legs to survive and thrive. This time around we've digging into the science behind birds greatest skill- flight! The brilliant Billy Valentine joins Will bringing with him years of experience working for one of the world's premier airplane manufacturers and insight into the physics behind the mystery of flying.  The episode is centered around a master of the skies, the red-tailed hawk, a hawk I'm willing to bet you have seen floating over the interstate. Tune in to learn how these birds have grown to dominate their domain and teach us as people how to harness flight for ourselves. Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=en Got a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say what's up! Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.com Will's Birdbrain has merch! Consider grabbing a sticker or two of your favorite common bird! Proceeds will go straight into funding more episodes and spreading the joy of birding!Shop - https://www.etsy.com/shop/WillsBirdbrain?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=1361667746Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! If you liked the show, please consider dropping a rating to show your support. Got suggestions for improvement, those could be added to a review! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked. Love the show, consider supporting me on Patreon! Click the link to sign up: https://www.patreon.com/willsbirdbrainRemember, always be birding!

Welcome to Season Two of the Will's Birdbrain Podcast! This season we're mixing up the formula, and taking a little bit of a deeper dive into what makes the hobby of birding unique. But don't fret! Common birds are still at the forefront of every discussion. Will is joined by Jocelyn, an ultra-runner and advocate the hobby of running in every form. Together they attempt to keep pace with the speedy bird of the day, the greater roadrunner! Where can these cuckoos be found, what their day to day is like, and some wild western fun facts! They also connect the hobby of birding to that of running, and explore why both hobbies deserve to be appreciated. Who knows, maybe they even find areas the two overlap! Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=en Got a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say what's up! Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.com Will's Birdbrain has merch! Consider grabbing a sticker or two of your favorite common bird! Proceeds will go straight into funding more episodes and spreading the joy of birding!Shop - https://www.etsy.com/shop/WillsBirdbrain?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=1361667746Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! If you liked the show, please consider dropping a rating to show your support. Got suggestions for improvement, those could be added to a review! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked. Love the show, consider supporting me on Patreon! Click the link to sign up: https://www.patreon.com/willsbirdbrainRemember, always be birding!

Will's Birdbrain makes his Spring migration home with season two! This season on Will's Birdbrain you'll be introduced to an all new cast of common birds who are much more than meets the eye! Joining the flock and these overlooked icons are some awesome new guests, providing unique perspectives on the bird of the day and birding as a hobby! We're hitting the ground running on May 14th with an episode about a bird you southwesterns might be familiar with. For more information relating to upcoming episodes, bird photos and facts, and short form video, check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account @WillsBirdbrain. Don't forget to say hi and let me know what bird you'd like to learn about too!https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=enYou may also reach out via email at Willsbirdbrain@gmail.com!Thank you for the support, and see you this Spring!

Gobble gobble welcome to the bird cabal! This bonus episode Will explores the history of Thanksgiving in the United States, and of course talks turkey. What are you thankful for this season?Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! This is my primary form of communication and updates! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=en Thank you Ontario Wildlife Photography for sponsoring this episode! To learn more about today's sponsor, check out the following websites: greenravenphotography.com & canadianimages.net Want to support the show? Check out my shop for cute podcast related products! All proceeds go straight to funding the show.https://www.etsy.com/shop/WillsBirdbrain?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=1332834800 Got a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say what's up! Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.com Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! If you liked the show, please consider dropping a rating to show your support. Got suggestions for improvement, those could be added to a review! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked.Remember, always be birding!

Welcome to the season one finale of Will's Birdbrain! This episode Will is joined by a multitude of amazing members of the birding community, from artists to beginner birders alike! The theme is "birds of a feather flock together," we truly embody this adage. Plus, we're joined by the bird that started it all, red-winged blackbirds! Making this show has been a delight! I've learned so much,  my passion has only grown. Thank you so much for joining the flock! And don't fret, Will hasn't completely flown South for the winter... stayed tuned for special bonus episodes before season two takes flight. Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! This is my primary form of communication and updates! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=en Thank you Ontario Wildlife Photography for sponsoring this episode! To learn more about today's sponsor, check out the following websites: greenravenphotography.com & canadianimages.net Want to support the show? Check out my shop for cute podcast related products! All proceeds go straight to funding the show.https://www.etsy.com/shop/WillsBirdbrain?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=1332834800Got a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say what's up! Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.comYour support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! If you liked the show, please consider dropping a rating to show your support. Got suggestions for improvement, those could be added to a review! I'd like to hear it all. The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked. Remember, always be birding!

Imagine, if you will, a world of unease. A realm in which the land, sea, and most importantly sky, offer ceaseless horror. Where psychological and bodily harm lie just outside your window. This place is not for the faint of heart, and the permanent residence for those living ornithophobia, the fear of birds. Proceed with caution as we travel to the outskirts of this world, your next stop... the Birdbrain Zone.Join Will as he uncovers a host of ghoulish bird facts sure to ruffle your feathers, from small but terrifying, to colossal monsters. The night ends with a spooky story, written by Will, which reminds us when we take from nature, nature takes from us.Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! There is currently a GIVEAWAY going on on Instagram as well, active until November 4th 2022! Get your free entries in before it's too late! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=en Thank you Ontario Wildlife Photography for sponsoring this episode! To learn more about today's sponsor, check out the following websites:greenravenphotography.com & canadianimages.netGot a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say what's up! Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.com Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! If you liked the show, please consider dropping a rating to show your support. Got suggestions for improvement, those could be added to a review! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked.Remember, always be spooky, birdbrains!

Will interviews one of the world's leading experts on the Common Loon, Dr. James D. Paruk. Together they discuss what it is that humans find so fascinating about loons, from their mournful wail to striking plumage. This conversation is flecked with awesome facts and unbelievable stories from Jim's adventures in the world of the loon. If you love loons too, check out Jim's book, Loon Lessons: Uncommon Encounters with the Great Northern Diver, to hear more stories directly from the Indiana Jones of Loons! https://www.upress.umn.edu/book-division/books/loon-lessonsBe sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=en Got a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say what's up! Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.com Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! If you liked the show, please consider dropping a rating to show your support. Got suggestions for improvement, those could be added to a review! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked. Remember, always be birding!

Everyone is an artist, what inspires you? Will and Maleah explore how black-capped chickadees are some of the most inspirational little birds when it comes to art. From their intricate vocalizations to surprising control over bodily functions, there's much more than meets the eye with chickadees. The myth this week is U`tlûñ'ta, the Spear-finger, from the Cherokee people. What can this story teach us about how animals representation is important? http://folkmasa.org/yashpeh/mb_yashp.php?mishtane=4207Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=en Got a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say what's up! Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.com Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! If you liked the show, please consider dropping a rating to show your support. Got suggestions for improvement, those could be added to a review! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked. Remember, always be birding!

Join Will and Sarah for a candid conversation about a truly unsung hero of not just the bird world but the whole world - the turkey vulture! The duo meet at the Maine Maritime Museum to discuss the importance of the turkey vulture, what makes them great family birds, and what they can teach US about enriching our communities. The myth this week is The Blind Vulture, from the Hitopadesha originating in India. This is a cautionary tale about trusting strangers. https://www.culturalindia.net/indian-folktales/hitopadesha-tales/blind-vulture.htmlBe sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=en Got a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say what's up! Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.com Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! If you liked the show, please consider dropping a rating to show your support. Got suggestions for improvement, those could be added to a review! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked. Remember, always be birding!

Will and Savannah don their best deerstalker hats and dive into the true crime world with an investigation of one of the most notorious birds in the world - the Canada Goose. The duo examines real life cases of "bird crime," and what it means to be a bad bird. Can this lawless troublemaker be redeemed?! The myth this week is The Goose Wife, an Inuit tale. The legend follows Itajung, as he learns it is important to understand other people's perspectives, especially when it comes to family. https://www.worldoftales.com/Native_American_folktales/Eskimo_folktale_6.html#gsc.tab=0Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=en Got a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say what's up!Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.com Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! If you liked the show, please consider dropping a rating to show your support. Got suggestions for improvement, those could be added to a review! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked.Remember, always be birding!

Will and Kayta buckle up for a whirlwind roadtrip to Louisiana to see peli-culiar brown pelicans! Along the way they discuss how brown pelicans were critically endangered because of human carelessness when it came to pollution. What does it mean to advocate for conservation, and why are brown pelicans such an important example of the dangers of neglecting the environment? Along the way they also discuss what makes brown pelicans so fascinating, as they are common birds in some places in the USA, but not all over. The myth this week is about the Serbian cryptid the Cikavac. Will wrote this tale, based on the fantastic beast, about a lonely woman seeking vengeance from a town with the aid of a magical pelican.  Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=en                                                                                                                                 Got a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say what's up!Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.com                                                                                                                                  Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! If you liked the show, please consider dropping a rating to show your support. Got suggestions for improvement, those could be added to a review! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked.Remember, always be birding!

Will and Olivia discuss what makes mallards magical! Mallards are birds that can easily be found in cities and towns. They act as gateways to nature, animals and birding! The duo talks about the role urban birding has on the hobby - you don't always need to go on big adventures far away when birding! Olivia brings her experience as an "urban birder" to the episode, sharing many stories of unique mallard encounters. Also explored are the ideas of reconciling hunting and conservation, leucism, and hybridization! The myth this week is The Twelve Wild Ducks! Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=en Got a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say hi!Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.com If you're interested in staying up to date on the show, consider following Will's Birdbrain on Repod as well! It's a free app from the Apple app store or Google Play store that lets people engage with podcast creators, and listen to their shows all on one central place. Come join the flock!https://repod.io/ Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! If you liked the show, please consider dropping a rating to show your support. Got suggestions for improvement, those could be added to a review! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked.Remember, always be birding!

Birding is a hobby you continue to refine and develop over time. With Birding 101 Will offers some of his favorite tips and tricks for birding! This episode is best listened to after the episode What is Birding? Where to find birds, how to identify them, and more is discussed! Let's go to class!Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=en Got a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say hi! Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.com If you're interested in staying up to date on the show, consider following Will's Birdbrain on Repod as well! It's a free app from the Apple app store or Google Play store that lets people engage with podcast creators, and listen to their shows all on one central place. Come join the flock! https://repod.io/ Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! If you liked the show, please consider dropping a rating to show your support. Got suggestions for improvement, those could be added to a review! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked. Remember, always be birding!

Will and Paul discuss when birds will start to live their lives right... gulls just want to have fun! Gulls' carefree personalities have lead people over the centuries to bestow heavenly attributes to these common birds. From messengers of God to tokens of luck, gulls have been viewed as good omens. Paul brings his museum and curatorial experience to ponder the value of bird art, and how gulls have been represented in history and culture via museums. Together they answer the question - can learning be fun? This episode's myth is the tale of Dylan of Wales. This will make you think twice about frolicking on the beach!Be sure to check out the Will's Birdbrain Instagram account for complementary episode photos and videos, plus many other awesome bird photos/stories! https://www.instagram.com/wills_birdbrain/?hl=enGot a favorite bird you'd like to hear discussed on the Podcast? Shoot Will an email and let him know what you'd like to hear, share a birding story, or just say hi!Email inquiries - willsbirdbrain@gmail.com If you're interested in staying up to date on the show, consider following Will's Birdbrain on Repod as well! It's a free app from the Apple app store or Google Play store that lets people engage with podcast creators, and listen to their shows all on one central place. Come join the flock!https://repod.io/Your support and interest is extremely helpful and encouraging! If you liked the show, please consider dropping a rating to show your support. Got suggestions for improvement, those could be added to a review! The goal of the Podcast is to share the love of birds, so be sure to share with your friends and family too. Together let's show some love to these common critters that so often get overlooked.Remember, always be birding!

Will and Josh discuss crows' spooky representation in film, and why these birds are more than dark omens. Discover how crows have used their intelligence to their advantage over the centuries, and have complex social lives! The featured myth is the legend of How the Crow Became Black!

Will and Kayta explain where pigeons come from, and how they've interacted with people over the past 5000 years. They also discuss a few wild facts about pigeons and their ties to the military! Don't miss this week's myth- the Legend of the Pigeons of Krakow!

Will introduces the audience to his favorite hobby, birding! The episode includes exploring what birding is, how to get started, and some tips on enjoying your time in nature. Will recalls his experience beginning birding with personal stories, and encourages folks to find their own footing in the bird world.

Will welcomes you to Will's Birdbrain by introducing himself to you! Learn about the bird that started it all for him, and why he wants other people to make special connections with birds. This introduction will also give you a taste of what to expect moving forward. Thanks for being here!