Birds of a Feather Talk Together
Birds of a Feather Talk Together is a birding and nature podcast for bird lovers of all experience levels. Hosted by professional ornithologists John Bates and Shannon Hackett, curators of birds at the Field Museum in Chicago, alongside birding enthusiasts RJ Pole and Amanda Pole, the show blends expert insight with fresh curiosity.
John and Shannon bring decades of ornithology experience and access to one of the largest bird collections in the United States, while RJ and Amanda represent newer birders—asking relatable questions that open the conversation to beginners without losing depth for seasoned bird watchers.
Each episode explores rare, exotic, extinct, and everyday birds, covering identification, behavior, conservation, and current avian research. From backyard birds to birds of the world, Birds of a Feather Talk Together offers expert knowledge in an approachable, conversational format.
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Birds of a Feather Talk Together
106: Kingfishers Around The World with Jenna Mccullough
In this episode of Birds of a Feather Talk Together, we welcome back Jenna McCullough, a third-generation birdwatcher from Boise, Idaho, with a PhD in Biology from the University of New Mexico. Currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Kentucky and soon to begin a prestigious National Science Foundation fellowship at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and UCLA, Jenna has traveled the globe in search of one of the world’s most fascinating bird families—the kingfishers.
Join hosts Shannon Hackett, John Bates, RJ Pole, and Amanda Pole as they dive into stories of rare and colorful kingfisher sightings from around the world, birdwatching adventures in exotic locations, and the science behind these incredible birds. Whether you’re a passionate birder, a wildlife enthusiast, or just love hearing about nature and travel, this fun and engaging episode will inspire your next birding trip.
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