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.
Subscribe and discover the fascinating world of birds—one chirp at a time. 🐦
Birds of a Feather Talk Together
116: Common Loon - An Eerie and Beautiful Call - Listener Request!
That echoing, haunting call drifting across a northern lake at dusk — few sounds in nature are as unforgettable as the common loon. In this listener-requested episode, RJ, John, Shannon, and Amanda dive into the world of these striking waterbirds. From their red eyes and black-and-white plumage to their incredible diving and parenting skills, loons are true masters of life on the water.
Grab a cup of coffee, settle in lakeside, and join us for a relaxing, fact-filled conversation about one of North America’s most iconic birds.
🎧 Listen to learn:
- Why loons’ eerie calls are so distinctive
- How their anatomy makes them world-class divers
- What their plumage and red eyes signal
- Where to find loons across the northern U.S. and Canada
Whether you’ve heard their call on a quiet morning or are dreaming of your next lake getaway, this episode will transport you straight to the water’s edge.
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