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
119: Spoon-billed Sandpiper - One Of The Rarest Birds On Earth - Story of Convergence
This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together, we’re exploring one of the rarest, most extraordinary birds on the planet: the spoon-billed sandpiper—a tiny shorebird with one of nature’s most fascinating evolutionary surprises.
If you caught our recent YouTube video where John compared a Roseate Spoonbill at the Field Museum to the delicate spoon-billed sandpiper specimen, you already know we love a good convergent evolution story. Two completely unrelated birds… both evolving their own version of a spoon-shaped bill. Nature never misses.
In this episode, we go deeper:
• How the spoon-billed sandpiper lives
• Why this critically endangered species is so incredibly rare
• The conservation challenges pushing it to the brink
• And what makes this small shorebird so endlessly remarkable
Join married couple Dr. John Bates and Dr. Shannon Hackett, curators of birds at Chicago’s world-renowned Field Museum, along with RJ Pole, and his wife Amanda, as we unpack the science, stories, and pure wonder behind the spoon-billed sandpiper.
Whether you’re a birder, nature lover, museum nerd, or curious listener, this episode is packed with insights into one of the most unique birds on Earth.
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