Birds of a Feather Talk Together
Join John Bates and Shannon Hackett, two seasoned bird experts, as they soar through the fascinating world of birds in this must-listen podcast for bird lovers of all levels! Whether you're an experienced birder or just starting to explore the wonders of the avian world, Birds of a Feather Talk Together has something for everyone.
With exclusive access to one of the largest bird collections in the United States, John and Shannon are joined by amateur birders RJ Pole and Amanda Marquart for in-depth discussions on exotic, rare, extinct, and common birds from around the globe. From the tiniest sparrows to the mighty eagles, no feathered friend is left out.
Each episode brings exciting stories, expert insights, and birding tips—perfect for anyone who has ever been fascinated by the beauty, behavior, and mysteries of birds. Whether you're a lifelong bird watcher or a beginner looking to learn more, this podcast will inspire you to discover new species, dive into bird conservation, and learn from the pros!
Why Listen?
- Discover rare and exotic bird species you never knew existed.
- Get insider tips from top bird experts on identifying and spotting birds.
- Learn about bird conservation efforts and the latest in avian research.
- A perfect podcast for beginners and experienced birders alike.
Hit subscribe now and start your journey into the incredible world of birds—one chirp at a time!
Birds of a Feather Talk Together
107: Club-winged Manakin - Making Robot Noises with its Feathers
This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together, it’s Shannon’s turn to pick the bird—and she’s chosen one of the wildest species on the planet: the club-winged manakin. If you’ve never heard of this bird, do yourself a favor right now—stop what you’re doing and google it. Trust us, you’ll be amazed.
The club-winged manakin doesn’t sing with its voice. Instead, it makes a bizarre, almost robot-like sound with its feathers—something no other bird on Earth can do. Scientists are still blown away by how this tiny bird pulls off such a unique performance in the rainforests of South America.
In this episode, Shannon, John, RJ, and Amanda break down everything you need to know about the club-winged manakin’s mind-blowing courtship display, the science behind feather-generated sound, and why this bird has become a favorite among ornithologists and bird lovers alike.
If you love strange, surprising, and unforgettable stories from the bird world, this episode is for you. Get ready to meet the club-winged manakin—the bird that sounds like a robot, but is 100% natural.
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