The Warblers by Birds Canada
By: Andrea Gress for Birds Canada
Language: en-ca
Categories: Science, Nature, Leisure, Hobbies, Education, How To
This award winning podcast shares Canadian information, insights and inspiration on the world of birds and bird conservation. The lively discussions are hosted by Andrea Gress whose curiosity leads to discovering fun facts and useful tips while travelling uncommon flight paths to learn from expert guests. Thanks to our incredible listeners, The Warblers podcast was named the winner of the 2022 Nature Inspiration Award - Canadian Museum of Nature in the non-profit (large) category! We would love to hear from you, let us know what you think about the podcast here or which topics you will love -> podcast@birdscanada.org
Episodes
Do birds have feelings? Experts answer your questions
Dec 15, 2025It's back! We've called upon guests from across Canada to help answer your birdiest questions!
Do the Northern Lights impact migratory birds? How do Surf Scoters digest whole clams? What does the "cheeseburger" song of the chickadee really mean? We answer these questions, and many more!
A special thanks everyone who sent in questions, and to our experts guests who have so wonderfully helped to answer them!
If you loved this episode, please consider donating to Birds Canada to support the show and bird conservation in Canada. And continue learning with so...
Duration: 00:56:55Toronto: a city of Blue Jays and Birders
Dec 01, 2025Canada's largest city attracts a surprising diversity of bird species - and peeping at them from along the shores of Lake Ontario: countless birders.
Among these birders, you'll find Jean Iron, Mark Peck and Nancy Barrett - three of Toronto's well known faces in the birding community. They share their favourite birding stories, explain the science behind why Toronto is a hotspot for birds, and relish in the community and friendships they've made through birding. Plus we hear about their new book, and give away a few copies!
Donate to Birds Canada for your chance t...
Duration: 00:25:31Superhero Senses - of birds!
Nov 03, 2025Discover the unique ways that birds understand the world through their senses! Some birds have bendy beaks, some swivel their eyes, and others sense magnetic fields. Andrew Iwaniuk is an expert on bird brains, and he helps us explore specialized bird senses and how their brains work!
Send us your bird questions! We'll answer them in our end of year episode.
Email podcast@birdscanada.orgSend Birds Canada a message on Instagram, Facebook or Bluesky Or leave us a voicemail at 519-586-3531, extension 128Big thanks to Birds and Beans for supporting the podcast! When...
Duration: 00:53:10Trick or Tweet: Ghostly sounds, murders, and bloodsucking birds
Oct 20, 2025In the spirit of spooky season, we bring you an eerie episode filled with spine-tingling bird facts. We debate the most haunting bird sounds, learn about blood sucking birds, corvid funerals, toxic species, and more. Plus you'll get some inspiration for a bird-themed Halloween costume!
Natasha has shared some links with additional facts:
Crow funerals with Kaeli Swift Vampire Finches from BBC EarthThe relationship between Oxpeckers and RhinosNatasha Barlow grew up near Point Pelee National Park in southern Ontario, and didn't fully appreciate the area until she had already moved away. Thankfully, sh...
Duration: 00:31:52Exploring Blackbirds with Experts Peter Burke and Alvaro Jaramillo
Oct 06, 2025Think you know blackbirds? This episode will change the way you see them. Andrea Gress and co-host Jody Allair discuss the underrated beauty and behaviour of blackbirds with experts Peter Burke and Alvaro Jaramillo. They highlight the diverse species within the Icteridae family, including Red-winged Blackbirds, Meadowlarks, and Orioles. They explore population trends, cultural perceptions, and the challenges of tracking species like the Rusty Blackbird. You won't want to miss the incredible stories from the pair who literally wrote the book on blackbirds!
Help migratory birds simply by drinking Bird-friendly Certified Coffee. When you order from <...
Biking for Birds: athletics to inspire bird conservation
Sep 17, 2025Migration is one of the most remarkable phenomena in the animal kingdom. What if the human body made the same trip?
Athletes Timm Döbert and Leanna Carriere join us to discuss their up-coming expedition, “Wings of Survival”, where they’ll bike from Alaska to Patagonia, following the route of the Whimbrel. This duo is using athletics to draw attention to nature and conservation. They tell us about their recent ride across Canada’s grasslands, how they’ve been linking Key Biodiversity Areas, and how they see birds as an essential part of the story.
Learn more a...
Duration: 00:27:58Up in the clouds with Black Swifts
Sep 02, 2025Black Swifts are also playfully known as Cloud Swifts, a suitable nickname for one of Canada's most impressive and mysterious birds. Join us above the clouds with researcher and mountain enthusiast, Rémi Torrenta, as he shares Black Swift season updates. He describes meeting Black Swifts at the top of a mountain, shares mind boggling facts about the species, and uplifting stories from a successful season of nest monitoring.
For an immersive episode on Black Swift research listen to The Wake-up Call: Black Swift, or watch Of Waterfalls and Wings – Surveying for the Mysterious Bla...
Duration: 00:33:56The Wake-up Call: Chestnut-collared Longspur
Aug 05, 2025The Chestnut-collared Longspur is an icon of the Prairies – an aerial acrobatist, singing and dancing in the sky. Jody Allair shares his love for this longspur, helping us understand why this charming species should be on everyone’s life list. As he describes his road trip to seek out the Chestnut-collared Longspur earlier this spring, Jody offers helpful advice on how to find a rare bird – this advice can be applied anywhere, to find any species. And with all Wake-up Call episodes, we’ll also learn about threats and challenges, and how you can help the Chestnut-collared Longspur.
We touch...
Duration: 00:35:02Bird Photography: tips and tricks from Liron Gertsman
Jul 22, 2025Taking good photos of birds isn't just about the gear - knowing bird behaviours and habitats is equally as important.
Professional wildlife photographer, Liron Gertsman, joins us to offer helpful pointers for folks looking to take their bird photography to the next level. He also shares the stories behind some of his most iconic photos, important notes on how to practice ethical bird photography, and tips for following a similar career path in combining photography with a love of birds.
Donate today to get your copy of the 2026 Birds Canada Calendar! Visit bi...
Duration: 00:29:21The Wake-up Call: Long-billed Curlew
Jul 07, 2025Join us on a road trip to Skookumchuck Prairie to seek out the Long-billed Curlew. Our editor Kris Cu takes the reigns, leading us through the grassy valleys of Southeastern British Columbia. Kris is joined by David Bradley of Birds Canada, and Dianne Cooper, the caretaker of the Skookumchuck Prairie Key Biodiversity Area. Through their eyes, we learn about the Long-billed Curlew - threats, challenges, conservation efforts - while also learning more about KBAs and how they offer essential habitat for species at risk.
When you order from birdsandbeans.ca/warblers Birds and B...
Duration: 00:25:39Revisiting Chewie the Piping Plover, and Queerness in Nature
Jun 25, 2025While working with Piping Plovers in June of 2022, Andrea Gress and the rest of the plover team, observed a same-sex pairing between two well known plovers. It was a first for the species.
But was it really?
In today's episode, Andrea shares a brief history of how queerness in nature was viewed by the scientific community, and how these perspectives have evolved. To explore this further, we also re-share an episode originally aired in 2022: Piping Plovers - A Love Story.
As promised, here are some additional resources to explore:
Watch:
Ani...
Duration: 00:11:31Is the White-throated Sparrow Canada's most interesting bird?
Jun 02, 2025Discover the fascinating world of the White-throated Sparrow: birds with two colour morphs, a unique mating system, and songs that spread like the latest Taylor Swift release. Professors Ken Otter and Scott Ramsay reveal the surprising complexity behind these seemingly ordinary birds.
When you order from birdsandbeans.ca/warblers Birds and Beans donates to this podcast, plus you support bird-friendly coffee farms which provide essential habitat, simply by drinking a cup of coffee.
Scott Ramsay is a Biology professor at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, ON, where he has b...
Duration: 00:37:33Exploring Bird Sounds with Dan Mennill
May 05, 2025In this episode we get answers to some of our biggest questions about bird songs, calls, and non-vocal sounds. Learn how thrushes make that haunting flute-like sound, listen to the duetting phenomenon of tropical songbirds, and explore how some birds learn their songs while others don’t. Dive into the complex world of avian communication – and so much more!
Help the iconic Wood Thrush and so many more migratory birds by drinking Bird-friendly Certified Coffee. When you order from birdsandbeans.ca/warblers Birds and Beans donates to this podcast.
Dan Mennil...
Duration: 00:45:09The birds are back: spring behaviours explained
Apr 08, 2025The birds are back! From raptors doing trust falls, to grebes running across water - birds are displaying their finest selves all across Canada!
In this episode, Kyle Horner breaks down the common, the weird, and the obscure bird behaviours that you should be looking for this spring. We also get interesting insights into the "mess" that is the Canada Goose. And Kyle shares what he considers the best birds to look for at this time of year, whether you're in Halifax, Kelowna, or somewhere in between!
Want more info on how to help birds...
Duration: 00:40:05Point Counts and Missing Pots: The Adventures of Bird Atlassing
Mar 03, 2025The Breeding Bird Atlas is the ultimate province-wide bird survey. In this episode, Atlas coordinators from Newfoundland, Ontario, and Saskatchewan share how and why Atlassing is a key part of bird conservation. We hear their biggest challenges, favourite stories from the field, and why you should be a part of it all. From boast worthy birds, to blackflies - the Breeding Bird Atlas is a project driven by a love for birds and for Canada's most far to reach places.
It's not too late to join an Atlas!
Newfoundland: nf.birdatlas.caOntario: b... Duration: 00:46:15So cute, so deadly: Northern Saw-whet Owl
Feb 03, 2025By size, shape and style, you might mistake this owl for a cuddly toy, but it's actually a deadly predator. In today's episode we chat about the Northern Saw-whet Owl - their adaptations, how to identify them by sound, how banding operations are helping to track their populations, and how you could get involved!
Happy Superb Owl day! #superbowl
Protect habitat while sipping on a cup of bird-friendly coffee! Birds and Beans will even donate to this podcast when you use the code "warblers" at checkout.
Join the ...
Did a chickadee steal my hotdog? Experts answer your questions
Dec 16, 2024As a special treat we've rounded up some of your most curious bird related questions and answered them in this episode (or tried to!).
Why do some birds have red eyes? Can owls hybridize? Can birds smell? And of course, we'll try to solve the hotdog mystery.
Help us keep doing what we do best by donating today. Or another great way to help...
Order some bird-friendly coffee for your cozy holiday season, and when you use the code "warblers", Birds and Beans will donate to t...
The Wake-up Call: Eastern Whip-poor-will
Nov 25, 2024Some call them goatsuckers, others may think of them as dragons in the night sky...but we know them lovingly as the Eastern Whip-poor-will.
We're joined by three researchers who are exploring the habitats, food sources, and migratory ranges of the Eastern Whip-poor-will. We learn all kinds of spooky facts about this elusive species, and gain insights into their threats and challenges. Plus we get to take a behind the scenes look at how research is done for this species at risk.
Help us keep doing what we do best by donating today. T...
Winter is better with Project FeederWatch
Nov 04, 2024As we get deeper into the fall months, we're joined by Olivia Carvalho to chat about an underappreciated pastime... winter birding!
With Olivia coordinating Project FeederWatch in Canada, she has great insights on how to help birds through the coldest months, winter adaptations, birds you might expect to see at your feeder, and more!
What birds are at your feeder? Let us know by joining Project FeederWatch!
Remember, you don't need to have a feeder to be part of the fun!
Stay warm this winter with a cup of Bird...
Canada's bird populations: the good, the bad, the uplifting
Oct 15, 2024How are Canada's birds doing? Recently released, The State of Canada's Birds brings us valuable insights into the health of our favourite species. Some have recovered wonderfully, like waterfowl and birds of prey, yet others are struggling and need urgent attention.
Catherine Jardine of Birds Canada and Marie-Anne Hudson with Environment and Climate Change Canada join us - after spending 4 years of their lives digging into this data - to share the biggest news on Canada's birds.
Explore the report and share what you learn. Together, we can have a positive...
Quebec's river of warblers
Sep 23, 2024An incredible migratory phenomenon occurs along the St. Lawrence River in Quebec. Thankfully, the Tadoussac Bird Observatory is located in just the right place to observe and study this mass movement of warblers and other songbirds.
Alexandre Terrigeol joins us during peak migration to share more about this phenomenon and about the other work occurring at the bird observatory, including bird banding research, educational workshops, and an annual birding festival!
Learn more about the Tadoussac Bird Observatory (or Observatoire d'oiseaux de Tadoussac). Support bird observatories through the Birds Canada Birdathon.
<...
Vultures: Sentinels of the Skies
Aug 26, 2024With their heads buried in a carcass, vultures may seem like gross, unwanted creatures. But we have to disagree! Vultures have fascinating adaptations that make them essential parts of a healthy ecosystem. John Kinghorn joins us from South Africa to share his unabashed love for vultures, help us understand why their populations are plummeting, and what we can do to help.
Learn more about the many projects BirdLife South Africa is leading and collaborating on to help vultures. And celebrate International Vulture Awareness Day on September 7th by sharing this podcast!
Th...
Grasslands, Birds, and Beef
Jul 29, 2024Grassland ecosystems and birds are increasingly under threat as agricultural operations expand to meet growing food demands. Yet, agriculture itself can be the solution!
Through personal anecdotes and a deep appreciation for the unique wildlife of the Canadian prairies, Ian Cook highlights the importance of grasslands and the need to find collaborative approaches that support farmers and producers, as well as the birds we all love.
Learn more about the Bird-friendliness Index here.
It takes a team. Ian wanted to shout out to the following groups for supporting this work: Environment...
The Wake-up Call: Olive-sided Flycatcher
Jun 24, 2024"Quick, three beers!" Jody Allair joins us to propose that the Olive-sided Flycatcher is one of Canada's best boreal birds. Will you agree?
While they do breed in the boreal forest, the cosmopolitan Olive-sided Flycatcher can be seen right across Canada during migration. Join us to learn more about their charming song and hunting habits, so that you can spot this bird the next time it perches on a tree top near you. And as usual, learn how you can help this threatened species and others like it.
Pick up your very own Olive-sided Flycatcher...
Getting to know Swifts and Swallows
Jun 10, 2024This bonus episode is all about getting to know swifts and swallows, those speedy aerial acrobats that make summer skies so lively.
Rielle Hoeg joins us to help shed some light on these two groups of birds. You'll get pointers on how to tell them apart, and which species are present across Canada. We also learn about their population status and a cool new project in Atlantic Canada aiming to protect Bank Swallow habitats.
Learn more about how you can help Aerial Insectivores across Canada. And check out this incredible story...
Warblin' about Warblers
May 21, 2024Around 37 warbler species nest in Canada each summer. But how much do you really know about them?
Long overdue, this episode is all about warblers! We explore the quirkiest behaviours, the best warbler songs, marvel over fun facts, and hear tips on where to find warblers no matter where you are in Canada. If you've ever wondered what that quick flash of bright yellow in the tree is...this episode is for you.
Help warbler species and help The Warblers Podcast at the same time! Order Bird Friendly Certified Coffee from Birds and Beans. They'll...
A Writer's Guide to Conserving Grasslands
Apr 29, 2024Trevor Herriot grew up exploring the aspen parkland and grasslands of southern Saskatchewan, deeply connected to the natural world around him. His passion for the prairies led him to become one of Canada’s most vocal proponents for the protection of grassland birds through his writing.
With a recently released first novel, The Economy of Sparrows, and several award winning non-fictions books under his belt, we were keen to sit down with Trevor to learn more about what drives his grassland focused writing, and explore the threats and issues that are top of mind for many across th...
NatureCounts: Helping Birds with Your Data
Mar 25, 2024Do you track bird sightings on eBird? Or have you participated in a citizen science project that helps to monitor bird populations, like Project FeederWatch or the Christmas Bird Count?
In this episode we learn what happens after the binoculars are put away. Whether reporting a single American Goldfinch at your feeder, or the efforts of a really successful Big Day, your observations create a real impact in bird conservation actions across Canada!
Catherine Jardine joins us to explain how your findings feed into NatureCounts, a massive database that helps to track bird populations and l...
The Wake-up Call: Roseate Tern
Feb 26, 2024The Roseate Tern is a dapper looking seabird that spends much of its breeding season far away from humans....yet most of the threats it faces are human related. Julie McKnight joins us to explore the challenges and joys of protecting and monitoring this threatened species.
Share Roseate Tern sightings and photos using eBird, you'll make Julie very happy! And if you're lucky enough to see a banded tern, report that sighting here.
If you're fascinated by some of the finer details of Roseate Tern conservation in Nova Scotia, che...
The Superb Snowy Owl
Feb 09, 2024To celebrate Superb Owl weekend (or the big football game for some folks), we decided to throw you an episode about one of our star players, the Snowy Owl!
We all love owls! Please take a moment to learn more about safely observing and photographing owls.
Join the Great Backyard Bird Count. It takes as little as 15 minutes to make a difference and you can participate from anywhere in the world!
The Nocturnal Owl Survey will be looking for helpers from February through April. And the ...
The healing power of nature and birds
Jan 29, 2024January is a tough time of year, but birds can help! We guarantee *good feels* by the end of this episode.
We're joined by Dr. Melissa Lem who directs Canada's nature prescription program. She helps us explore the science behind why nature makes us feel good. Also joining the podcast, is Melissa Hafting, a powerhouse birder from British Columbia who shares her personal experience of using birding to benefit her health and also to create community through forming the BC Young Birders Program.
This episode contains lots of bird songs, and will inspire you to he...
How do birds survive the extremes of winter?!
Jan 12, 2024Brrrr! A polar vortex is chilling western Canada while the east is being battered by snowy winter storms! Yet, we can still see birds out the window...how do they do it?
In this bonus episode you'll learn how tough birds really are, plus get some tips to help the winter birds near you!
Join Project FeederWatch today! It's the perfect winter activity. Plus your data contributes to bird conservation.
Keep those feeders clean! Get some easy, helpful tips here.
Jody Allair is an avid b...
A Year for the Birds: 2023 highlights from across Canada
Dec 18, 2023From British Columbia to Newfoundland, and everywhere in between...join Yousif Attia, Jared Clarke, and Andrea Gress, as they discuss some of the biggest birding news from 2023. Learn about how Red Crossbills might be more mysterious than you realize, hear their takes on Bird Names for Birds, and marvel over some of the best rare bird sightings of the year.
Follow Jared's birding adventures on Instagram, or hop on one of his tours through Bird•The•Rock!
Support the podcast! Your gift helps keep the podc...
The Wake-up Call: Black Swift
Nov 21, 2023Join Black Swift researchers on a journey through the forest to find one of the most elusive species in Canada....will they succeed?
As Black Swift populations decline, the crews at Birds Canada strive to understand the whole picture, and find ways that we can all help these aerial insectivores. In this episode you'll learn all about Black Swifts, and also glimpse into the lives of wildlife researchers.
To continue learning, and see incredible footage of Black Swifts, check out our short video, Of Waterfalls and Wings - Surveying for the Mysterious Black Swift<...
The Wake-up Call: Burrowing Owl
Oct 23, 2023Burrowing Owls...those weird little owls that nest underground, and scowl disapprovingly at us with their bright yellow eyes. This episode is for them! We've invited Graham Dixon-MacCallum from the Wilder Institute to share quirky facts about this captivating species, help us understand why they're threatened, and learn more about a few of the conservation tools being used to help.
As promised, here are some pointers for photographing owls without causing them harm.
Check out these many great organizations working to help Burrowing Owls in Canada!
Indigenous-led Conservation Protects Bird Habitats
Sep 26, 2023We can learn a lot about conservation by looking to Indigenous leadership. In this episode, we head to Wolastoqey Nation in New Brunswick to learn about how Indigenous-led conservation may be exactly what the birds need.
Our guests, Gordon Grey from Bilijk First Nation, Jamie Gorman from Neqotkuk First Nation, and Kelsey Butler of Birds Canada, offer exceptional insights into Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCA), and get us motivated and excited about a future where IPCAs are a key tool for protecting natural areas and critical habitats.
Learn more or get in touch with <...
Sharing Anishinaabe Bird Names through Tourism
Sep 12, 2023You might remember Joe Pitawanakwat from a previous episode, Bneshiinyik, where he shared knowledge about how birds are named in the Anishinaabe language. Since we last spoke with him, Joe has been working on many projects to continue expanding and sharing Indigenous Knowledge. In this episode, we tag along with him for one of those projects. Join us for a birding adventure on Manitoulin Island!
Wikwemikong Tours offers an array of Indigenous Tourism experiences in the Manitoulin Island and Killarney Region. Their year-round services specialize in cultural tours and land-based learning experiences. Check them o...
Every egg counts; an extraordinary conservation story
Aug 29, 2023With only 150 individuals in the Great Lakes region, every single egg matters. In 2023, the Piping Plover conservation effort went to great lengths, as Ontario eggs were raised and released from captive rearing in Michigan, for the very first time. Sydney Shephard joins us to share the juicy details about this effort, the chaos of a Piping Plover field season, and good news from the Great Lakes region.
Birds and Beans delivers bird-friendly certified coffee across Canada, and donates 10% of your purchase to this podcast and bird conservation in Canada when you use this link. Plus...
The Power of Representation in Birding
Jul 24, 2023This episode features two groups that are working to improve representation in the outdoors. They're creating welcoming spaces for Indigenous, Black and/or Racialized people, and the 2SLGBTQ+ community to have outdoor and nature based experiences, often centralized around the thing that we all love....birds!
Learn more about FREED, or support their great work with a donation. Head to Special Bird Service to get involved, and follow the link in their website for donations.
Bird-friendly coffee is an easy way to help birds every morning! Birds and Beans...
The Wake-up Call: Whooping Crane
Jun 28, 2023The Whooping Crane population plummeted to a mere 15 birds in the 1900s, but thanks to intensive conservation efforts we now have over 500 individuals in the wild.... but Whooping Crane populations are not in the clear. John and Mark explain what conservation efforts currently look like, and the challenges they anticipate for the species in the coming years.
Bird-friendly coffee is an easy way to help birds every morning! Birds and Beans donates 10% of your purchase to this podcast and bird conservation in Canada when you use this link.
John Conkin is...
Battle of the Beaks: the winner is....
Jun 21, 2023This epic battle featured 6 beaks from around the world; Loggerhead Shrike, Wrybill, African Openbill, Atlantic Puffin, Laysan Albatross and White-tipped Sicklebill...but wait! If you haven't listened to the first two episodes of the "Battle of the Beaks", you absolutely must listen to those before learning who the winner is in this minisode.
Huge thank you to each of our wonderful guests, and big thank you to everyone who voted!
Kris Cu grew up in the bustling city of Manila, Philippines and often watched the Pied Fantails forage around the neighbour’s g...
The Wake-up Call: Red Knot
May 30, 2023On this episode Andrea and Amie MacDonald nerd out about shorebirds! Amie shares the joys of researching Red Knots in James Bay in northern Ontario, and helps us explore the threats these long distance migrants face across their full range. Did someone say...horseshoe crabs?!
Bird-friendly coffee is an easy way to help birds every morning! Birds and Beans donates 10% of your purchase to this podcast and bird conservation in Canada when you use this link.
Dive deeper with Amie's book recommendations, The Narrow Edge and <...
Battle of the Beaks: Part 2
May 03, 2023This is the second episode in the ultimate Battle of the Beaks!! We're featuring six of the worlds most unique and specially adapted bird beaks over two episodes. Only one will be crowned the winner!
VOTE HERE for your favorite beak.
If you think we missed a reeeally cool beak, let us know! Leave a review, or comment on our socials. Find us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.
Learn more about bird conservation programs in Africa. BirdLife South Africa and Na...
Battle of the Beaks: Part 1
Apr 25, 2023Six beaks enter the ring, only one will be crowned the ultimate BEST BEAK!
In this special two part episode, we explore some of the weirdest, and most fascinating bird beaks, with experts from around the world. Voting will open after the second episode is released, and YOU will decide which beak is the best!
Learn more about the good work that Wildlife Preservation Canada is doing for Loggerhead Shrike and many other species.
Get involved with Puffin Patrol in Newfoundland through CPAWS, and learn more about the incredible P...
Spring birding, "go find some ducks!"
Apr 11, 2023Join us for a morning of spring birding in Calgary! We get some birding pointers from from the team as they seek out Common Goldeneyes, Lesser Scaups, Wood Ducks, and welcome back many of our summer songbird friends, like the classic American Robin. Check out the full list of their sightings on eBird.
Inspired to get a new pair of binoculars or scope for your spring birding adventure? Check out the range of great products by Kowa. If it's crystal clear, it's Kowa.
Jody Allair is an avid birder and naturalist who enjoys sharing his enthusiasm fo...
The Wake-up Call: Chimney Swift
Mar 27, 2023Have you noticed little cigars in the sky? Perhaps they torpedo into a chimney in your neighbourhood? ....no, those aren't strange escaped creatures from Alice in Wonderland, they are Chimney Swifts!
In this episode we learn more about these captivating birds who many of us can call our neighbours. We explore their steep population decline, and learn how each of us can play a role in the species recovery.
Get involved! Join SwiftWatch today!
Do you have a chimney that swifts might be using? Check out this quick guide t...
Bird Gaming for Conservation
Mar 14, 2023In this episode, Andrea speaks with Adam Dhalla - a 17-year-old birder, designer of the game Find the Birds, and recipient of the ABA's Young Birder of the Year award. Adam's passion is the intersection of nature and technology.
Adam describes becoming interested in birds and bird conservation as an 11-year-old. He quickly realized that birds are in trouble and that there weren't many people his age engaged in birding and bird conservation. As a gamer himself, he decided to create Find the Birds, a game that would teach kids like him about birds and conservation issues...
The Art of Birding with Paul Riss
Feb 21, 2023“One day a black-capped chickadee landed on my hand and a birding monster was born.”
Paul has been an active birder for decades and he has dedicated himself to changing how the hobby is perceived, what people picture when they think of birders, and how to connect more people to birds through art and gaming.
In 2011, Paul cut his hair into a mohawk and embarked on the Punk Rock Big Year then tattooed the latin name for each of the species he spotted on his body. He caught people’s attention and changed how we think of...
What's so great about the Great Backyard Bird Count?
Jan 24, 2023Season 3 of the Warblers Podcast launches today with an episode about the Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC). Andrea connects with experts from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Audubon Society, and our own Kerrie Wilcox, who all work together to organize the GBBC in Canada and the US. They talk program history, the evolution of birding and technology, and the importance of having engaging entry-level bird monitoring opportunities for people.
Spoilers...you don't need a backyard to get involved. Join the Great Backyard Bird Count.
The Warblers is brought to you...
Did the birds win at COP15?
Dec 21, 2022Patrick Nadeau returns for a follow-up chat about his time at COP15; the Convention on Biological Diversity. He highlights some of the key outcomes and what they mean for biodiversity in Canada and the world as a whole. Tune in for some feel good vibes and what to watch for in 2023.
The Warblers is brought to you by Birds Canada a non-profit, charitable organization. Please make a donation today to support the podcast and bird conservation work in Canada.
Patrick Nadeau is a biologist by training, with o...
'Tis the season for the Christmas Bird Count
Dec 12, 2022This isn't your typical holiday tradition, but it might become your favourite! The Christmas Bird Count runs from December 14th to January 5th each year. It is a long-running program that helps researchers get a grasp on how the bird populations are faring across the western hemisphere. Yousif Attia joins the podcast to help us understand the significance of the CBC for both the participants and the birds. Plus he shares tips for how you too, can turn this into a winter tradition. No eggnog required!
Join a CBC with Birds Canada, or if you're tu...
What COP15 means for birds
Dec 02, 2022You are soon to hear a lot of buzz about COP15, as the Convention on Biological Diversity kicks off in Montreal. These big conventions can get a little confusing. What are the outcomes? Does it make a difference for the planet? For the birds?
We think this one does! We're very excited that it's happening here in Canada, where we can ALL be a part of it. President & CEO of Birds Canada joins the podcast for a quick chat about what we can expect from COP15 and why it matters.
Please consider supporting the podcast...
Birding with Neil Pasricha
Nov 22, 2022What do you do when you get a chance to go birding with one of your favorite authors?? Go birding...but also, record a podcast!
Jody Allair catches up with Neil Pasricha near Edmonton, AB, for some fall birding. They chat about birding culture, the value of getting into nature, and geek out about some of their favourite bird sightings.
Please consider supporting the podcast you love and bird conservation in Canada with a donation today. The Warblers is brought to you by Birds Canada a non-profit, charitable organization.
...
Inspired by YOU!
Nov 15, 2022We are beyond thrilled to have received a Nature Inspiration Award from the Canadian Museum of Nature. Andrea and Andres take a moment to react to the positive news.
Thank you to everyone who has been listening and supporting the podcast, and of course a big thank you to everyone taking action for birds!
Andrea Gress studied Renewable Resource Management at the University of Saskatchewan. She pivoted towards birds, after an internship in South Africa. Upon returning, she worked with Piping Plovers in Saskatchewan and now coordinates the Ontario Piping Plover Conservation Program...
The Wake-up Call: Marbled Murrelet
Oct 25, 2022The Marbled Murrelet keeps researchers on their toes. Their nests are tucked away in the mossy upper branches of old growth forests...the last place we'd ever expect to find a seabird! David joins us from British Columbia to shed some light on these fascinating birds; where you might spot one, the challenges they face, and how to help.
Get some Bird Friendly Certified Coffee to keep you warm and toasty this fall! 10% of your purchase from Birds and Beans goes towards supporting this podcast and bird conservation in Canada when you use this...
Key Biodiversity Areas - Canada's Critical Places for Nature
Sep 27, 2022Key Biodiversity Areas or KBAs are sites that are important for the survival of a species or ecosystem.
Canada is a global leader in identifying KBAs which will play a critical role in our efforts to halt and reverse biodiversity loss before it’s too late. As part of the KBA Canada Secretariat, together with our partners and volunteers, Birds Canada is identifying the most precious places in Canada.
The KBA program has the potential to be a game-changer for safeguarding threatened biodiversity, as it is now possible to focus conservation efforts where it...
The Wake-up Call: Bicknell's Thrush
Aug 22, 2022Bicknell's Thrush field work sounds like a dream job for those who love extreme, dense forest conditions. Bears, moose, getting thwacked in the face with branches...utter bliss for the diehard biologists!
For most people though, those conditions are less than ideal. This makes learning about the Bicknell's Thrush quite challenging. How do we track the population of such an elusive bird species? How do we protect it, when many people don't even know it's there?
Amy-Lee shares with us the joy of studying this drab but loveable bird in the forests of the Maritimes pr...
Minisode: An update on Chewie the Piping Plover
Aug 16, 2022Chewie is a Piping Plover that brings much drama with her everywhere she goes, and we love her for it! Find out what she got up to since she was featured in the June minisode "Piping Plovers- A Love Story". If you have not listened to that episode, go back and check it out BEFORE listening to this one!
Learn more about band combos, and report a banded Piping Plover here. Reporting bands helps researchers track the population and leads to improved conservation for the species.
To learn more about plovers o...
The Wake-up Call: Leach's Storm-Petrel
Jul 18, 2022The sound of Leach's Storm-Petrels returning to their burrows under the cover of darkness is what you might expect to hear in a fairy tale. Like elves giggling in the distance.
Laura Tranquilla of Birds Canada, joins us to share what it's like to work with one of Canada's smallest and most mysterious seabirds. Leach's Storm-Petrels breed in colonies along Canada's Atlantic coast, but spends much of the daylight hours far out at sea. Like many shorebird species, their population is in decline, but the exact cause can be hard to pin point. We explore...
The Wake-up Call: Piping Plover
Jun 20, 2022Falling in love with chonky floofs, and how to help them! From navigating crowds of people to avoiding cow footprints on beaches, Piping Plovers have no shortage of challenges. Andrea chats with plover researchers from Saskatchewan and Nova Scotia about these challenges and more, and how the conservation approaches can be radically different across Canada.
Learn more about Piping Plovers near you, and potential volunteer opportunities. Mentioned in the episode are Birds Canada, Nature Saskatchewan, Alberta Conservation Association, but there are many more organizations doing good work for Piping Plovers!
Minisode: Piping Plovers - A Love Story
Jun 09, 2022In this minisode Andrea shares a glimpse into the world of Piping Plovers and the struggles they face through a fascinating tale about 'Chewie', a very determined Piping Plover female. The story provides an introduction to these birds and leaves listeners wanting to know more. Fortunately we'll be learning more in our next episode! Stay tuned.
What happened to Chewie? Check out of follow-up episode to hear how her summer went.
Andrea Gress studied Renewable Resource Management at the University of Saskatchewan. She pivoted towards birds, after an internship in South Africa. Upon r...
The Wake-up Call: conserving Canada's most threatened bird species
May 26, 2022The Wake-up Call is a special series where we'll be learning about Canada's most threatened, and at-risk bird species. Experts working with each species will help us fall in love with these often elusive birds; we'll learn about the greatest threats, and how we can help.
This first episode in the series provides background information to help us understand how species are protected in Canada. Later episodes will feature deep dives into species such as Piping Plover, Bicknell's Thrush, Leach's Storm-Petrel, and many more.
We love hearing from you! Let us know what you think o...
Minisode: More awesome band recovery stories from Stu Mackenzie and the importance of bird safety
May 18, 2022When we visited Long Point Bird Observatory for the previous episode we could not get enough of Stu Mackenzie's bird banding stories, and incredible level of knowledge! So here are some more tidbits from Stu. Don't forget to check out the full length episode to experience the awe of life at a banding station!
Remember to report bands!
Stu MacKenzie is responsible for the Motus Wildlife Tracking System, Long Point Bird Observatory, Thunder Cape Bird Observatory, and aspects of the Canadian Migration Monitoring N...
A bird banding day at Long Point Bird Observatory
Apr 29, 2022Bird observatories are an essential starting place for young biologists, but also for members of the public; to watch, to learn, and to fall in love with birds in a more intimate and up-close setting.
Long Point Bird Observatory is where it all begins for many of us. It is the founding program of Birds Canada, ultimately leading to everything we do today. We urge you to visit a bird observatory near you, but for now, please join Andrea and Andres, as they field trip to Long Point Bird Observatory and l...
Minisode: Getting Ready for Spring Migration
Apr 07, 2022Spring is here! And so are the birds!
Andrea quizzes Jody Allair on his best spring birding tips. They chat about favorite spring bird songs, how to brush up on ID skills, where to meet local birders ...and so much more!
Want access to BirdWatch Canada magazine? Subscribe here.
Out of coffee? Want to slurp on a cup that supports both bird conservation and this podcast?! Grab some certified bird-friendly coffee for The Warblers now => at Birds and Beans.
Jody Allair is an avid birder and na...
The Bird Friendly City
Mar 21, 2022Spring approaches and the birds are rapidly migrating back to their summer homes. They are taking up residence across Canada, preparing to nest in our backyards, local parks, and even in industrial areas. We love seeing and hearing them return for the summer. With three-quarters of Canada’s population residing in urban areas, and many of our favourite bird species sharing those spaces with us…how do we make sure our urban environments are safe places for birds?
We chat with Tim Beatley, author of The Bird-Friendly City, and long-time advocate for developing urban areas that co-exist with...
Minisode: did Jurassic Park get it wrong?
Mar 10, 2022Did you have an obsession with dinosaurs as a kid? Yep, us too!
In this minisode, we’re chatting more with Dr. Francois Therrien from the Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller about the bird dinosaur connection, and a favourite classic movie….Jurassic Park.
Out of coffee? Want to slurp on a cup that supports both bird conservation and this podcast?! Grab some certified bird-friendly coffee for The Warblers now => at Birds and Beans.
By studying the palaeoecology of extinct animals, François Therrien aims to determine how animals behav...
Duration: 00:06:27Dino Watching: Are Birds Dinosaurs?
Feb 23, 2022Our producer, Jody Allair, never stopped loving dinosaurs. He is always telling us about how birds are actually just dinosaurs. Is he right?
In this episode, we hear from Dr. François Therrien at the Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller, Alberta. We learn about the evolution of birds, and their similarities with theropod dinosaurs. This episode goes out to everyone who never stopped loving dinosaurs!
By studying the palaeoecology of extinct animals, François Therrien aims to determine how animals behaved when they were alive, and what the world they li...
The Year in Birds Minisode: Positive News Stories of 2021
Feb 09, 2022A lot happened for birds in 2021, for example, Andrés found the Razorbills... Now, seriously, In this minisode, we cover some of the good news stories that we didn’t have a chance to touch on in our last episode, such as the strengthening of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and significant funding for Indigenous stewardship programs in Canada.
Jody Allair is an avid birder and naturalist who enjoys sharing his enthusiasm for the natural world. He is the producer of the Warblers Podcast and the Director of Community Engagement at Birds Canada and has...
The Year in Birds: Canadian bird and birding highlights from 2021
Jan 25, 2022We sat down with our friends, Yousif and Mike, expecting to chat about the past year in birding—but we couldn’t settle on one topic!
In this episode, we marvel over rare bird sightings, like the Steller’s Sea Eagle that visited multiple Canadian provinces this year. We dig into what it means to be a “birder”, and how the birding community has changed for the better in recent years. And we chat about how bird populations have fluctuated in our lifetimes, and how the influx of new birders and technology like eBird helps us track those chang...
Duration: 00:48:59Drinking what we love: the case for a bird-friendly coffee revolution
Dec 10, 2021Wondering what you can do to help birds? Drink (the right) coffee! Specifically, bird-friendly certified coffee. Bird-Friendly coffee is great for birds and people, yet many bird lovers haven’t made the switch. Kirstin Hill from the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Centre joins us to talk about why it’s important to buy bird-friendly CERTIFIED coffee. Spoiler Alert! Canadians drink copious amounts of coffee and by switching to a certified alternative we can have a massive impact on the birds we see flying outside our windows, going to their South American grounds. If you haven't listened to part 1 of our Holi...
Duration: 00:27:58Drinking what we love: the link between birds and coffee
Dec 07, 2021When it comes to coffee and birds there’s a surprising amount we can learn. Many of our beloved migrant birds spend their winters in southern climes. In coffee plantations in fact. Shade-grown, organic, fair-trade, and bird-friendly coffee – what’s up with all the certifications? What difference does it make if my coffee is certified bird-friendly?
Dr. Ana Gonzalez grew up among the coffee plantations of Colombia and is now living in Canada. Ana tells us about her work and the important role coffee plays in the lives of many bird species that are in trouble. And the role w...
Feeding Birds the Right Way
Nov 23, 2021Should we feed birds? When and why? These are some of the questions we explore with Kerrie Wilcox, Birds Canada’s bird feeding expert. With decades of experience leading Project FeederWatch, Kerrie explains the value of observing the birds in your yard and what the data tells us about bird population trends. And what watching ‘our’ birds contributes to our own well-being.
We’ll also talk to experts to answer some of the amazing questions listeners submitted. Together, we learn why some birds change colour, why birds have different flight styles, different types of nests and what is the m...
Minisode: The Epic Annual Migration of the Sabine's Gull
Nov 08, 2021Dr. Sarah Gutowsky shares her recent findings on the migratory route of Sabine’s Gulls. This incredible species migrates 15,000 km from the high Arctic to Perú, and makes a brief but essential stopover along the coast of Vancouver Island in the Juan de Fuca Strait. Sarah helps us explore, not only the methodologies and insights from this research but also how she hopes the research may be used to inspire positive conservation actions.
Shortly after our talk with Sarah, a shipping disaster occurred in the Juan de Fuca Strait. We imagine the environmental impacts will be ongoing for...
The seabirds you did not know you love
Oct 25, 2021There are 58 bird species living in Canadian oceans, 95% of them are in trouble worldwide, furthermore, we don't really understand how 62% of Canadian seabirds are doing due to unknown population trends. In this episode, you will discover the Seabirds you did not know you love, the reasons for their decrease and what you can do to help them with your everyday choices. Dr. Sarah Gutowsky will take us on a discovery journey that starts with the career path of a talented, unconventional, and inspiring biologist to the conservation and threats facing the enigmatic seabirds that defined her journey.
Minisode: Migizi
Oct 14, 2021Knowledge keeper Alan Colley from the Wolf Clan brings us one of the stories of Migizi. This is the Anishinabemowin name for the Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus). The story was produced and recorded by Shadowland Theatre for the Milliken Mills High School Earth Day Celebration in 2020. Check out the poems, songs and works of arts prepared by students for this Celebration here: https://www.mmhsbirds.com/ - You will love them!
Watch Alan telling the story here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6nYi3k3hxs
Alan Colley is an Anishinaabe knowledge k...
Bneshiinyik
Sep 29, 2021Bneshiinyik is how Anishinaabe people know birds. On this episode that marks National Truth and Reconciliation Day, we talk with Joseph Pitawanakwat a young knowledge keeper in search of medicine, names and stories. He talks about how birds are named in Ojibwe and some of the teachings and gifts they share with us. What you will discover in this episode is that language is a key to the knowledge of an organism and how it fulfills its duties and functions on the land. This knowledge brings you to a good life on the land.
Please remember we w...
Minisode: Using Merlin Sound ID for Pros
Sep 09, 2021Whether you are testing the Merlin Sound ID app or have mastered the app, got a new recorded, shotgun mic for your phone and have annoyed all your family asking them to be quiet while you record... you might have some burning questions. Like, is sound ID enough to report a bird? Can I get better at recording? What do I do if Merlin gets a bird wrong? In this Minisode, we explore these scenarios and more!
Please remember we would love to hear from you, let us know what you think about the podcast here or...
Who’s singing? AI powered bird sound identification at your fingertips, free.
Aug 26, 2021It's a dream come true – there's finally an app for identifying bird sounds. In the next episode of The Warblers podcast, we’ll explore the Merlin Bird ID app’s new Sound ID feature and how artificial intelligence is redefining birding. We talk with Drew Weber and Jody Allair and go deep into the implications and opportunities that this technology will bring for birds, and new as well as experienced birders.
Drew Weber coordinates the Merlin project at the Cornell Lab, as well as some web development for eBird and Macaulay Library. He enjoys expandi...
Minisode: Tips for Attracting Birds to YOUR Garden - wherever you are in Canada
Aug 18, 2021We talked to Natasha Barlow a couple of weeks ago about Bird Gardens. she provided bonus information to help you attract specific species, birds you might not know you wanted or could attract to your garden. If you haven't had a chance, check out the full episode.
Full episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1784269/8970575
Please remember we would love to hear from you, let us know what you think about the podcast here or which topics you will love -> podcast@birdscanada.org
Natasha Barlow is a biologist living in Ontario and is...
ANYONE can garden for birds. We tell you how.
Aug 04, 2021It often feels like we've been engaged in a battle with our lawns; we cut, mow, trim, drown and poison them to achieve that lush poster green look. We believe that yards, birds and landowners will find more happiness with a naturalized space. This paradigm shift will provide an opportunity for enjoyment, reflection and conservation - rather than work and sterile spaces. Many North American bird species are in decline due to habitat loss and degradation, among other global threats. In this episode, Natasha Barlow and Kevin Kavanagh teach you how to do things differently.
Natasha...
The case for including humans in the frame
Jul 07, 2021We speak with Julian Victor, a wildlife Filmmaker from Toronto who has worked on projects for National Geographic, as well as with legendary wildlife filmmakers Dereck and Beverly Joubert. He was one of the presenters for the first-ever Black Birders Week in 2020 and currently creates nature segments for Breakfast Television, one of Canada’s most popular TV shows. We explore how he got to be a rising wildlife filmmaking star and the risks of presenting pristine images of nature and birds; highlighting the importance of letting humans creep into bird images and documentaries.
Julian Victor is a...
Monitoring an icon - the story of the Common Loon in Canada
Jul 07, 2021The iconic Canadian snowbird. Find out surprising facts about our beautiful Common Loons (Gavia immer) and how they are faring in Canada. We speak with Kathy Jones and Kristin Bianchini to explore the fascinating and fragile world of the Common Loon and the role volunteer scientists play in our understanding of their complex lives.
Join the Canadian Lake Loon Survey visiting: www.birdscanada.org/loon
More on Loons: https://www.birdscanada.org/fantastic-loons-and-where-to-find-them/
Kathy Jones (link to full bio: Our Staff | Birds Canada | Oiseaux Canada): Kathy is the...
Lessons from Ferruginous Hawk research on the prairies
Jul 07, 2021"Challenging" - learn more about this understatement in the world of Ferruginous Hawk (Buteo regalis) research with Janet Ng. In our inaugural episode, we explore many angles of this exciting conservation work from the up and down fortunes of this species to the personal toll on an intrepid researcher.
Janet Ng, Ph.D., is a species at risk biologist who has worked on a variety of species and landscapes around Canada. Her work is focused on wildlife-habitat relationships and how human development, climate change, and their combined effects can potentially impact species at risk.
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