Birds have a unique way of keeping their feathers in top shape, thanks to a special gland called the uropygial gland. Also known as the preen gland, this small but important organ is located near the base of a bird’s tail. It produces an oily secretion that birds spread over their feathers during preening, helping to keep them clean, flexible, and waterproof. Birds apply the oil by rubbing their beak or head against the gland and then spreading it over their body.

Not all birds have a uropygial gland, but for those that do, it plays a crucial role in feather maintenance. The oil provides waterproofing, which is especially important for water birds like ducks and swans. When they preen, they distribute the oil across their feathers, creating a protective barrier that keeps water from soaking in. This is why ducks can swim without getting waterlogged.

Most swans, ducks, and geese have highly active uropygial glands that keep their feathers super waterproof. This allows them to float effortlessly without getting waterlogged. If a duck’s gland stops working or is damaged, it can lose buoyancy and struggle in the water. That’s why preening is such an important part of a duck’s daily routine!

Unlike many waterbirds, Anhingas have a reduced uropygial gland, meaning they produce very little waterproofing oil for their feathers. As a result, their feathers become easily waterlogged, which actually helps them dive and swim underwater more efficiently to catch fish. However, this also means they need to dry off frequently, which is why Anhingas are often seen perched with their wings spread wide in the sun. This classic pose helps them dry their feathers and regulate their body temperature after a long swim!

The oil from the uropygial gland has other functions besides waterproofing; it helps condition feathers, preventing them from becoming brittle or breaking. 

For example, while most owls have uropygial glands, their feathers are designed for silent flight rather than swimming. Their preen oil is not used for waterproofing, which is why they absorb water easily. 

In addition to waterproofing and conditioning, the oil from the uropygial gland may also have antimicrobial properties. Some studies suggest that it helps protect against bacteria and fungi that could damage feathers. 

Flamingos, like the Chilean Flamingo and Greater Flamingo, use their uropygial gland oil not just for waterproofing—but also as a sort of cosmetic! They actively rub the preen oil onto their feathers to enhance their pink color. This behavior is especially noticeable during breeding season when they want to look their brightest to attract a mate. A flamingo that applies more oil appears more vibrant and may have better luck finding a partner!

Uropygial gland secretions in Spotless Starlings have been shown to have an odor that may help birds identify one another. The specific scents can indicate personal demographic information (like age, and reproductive status) to other birds!

Some species, like parrots, lack a uropygial gland and rely on powder down feathers instead, which produce a fine dust that helps with feather maintenance.

The uropygial gland is a fascinating adaptation that helps birds stay in peak condition. Whether it's keeping feathers waterproof, flexible, attractive, or free from harmful microbes, this small gland plays a big role in a bird’s daily life.

Birdorable loves birds, and we love when others share their passion for birds, too! Last year, we were interested to hear from Megan LaRocque, a Master of Science student at the University of Alberta in Canada. Megan reached out to us with a special request—she wanted to use one of our Birdorable illustrations in a special presentation about her research on Black-capped Chickadees. Of course, we said yes!

Megan’s research focuses on chickadee behavior, specifically whether these small songbirds use information from their flock mates when deciding whether or not to visit an empty feeder. Chickadees are highly social birds, and their ability to learn from each other is an interesting topic for scientists who study animal behavior.

As part of her studies, Megan participated in the Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition. This event, originally developed by the University of Queensland in Australia and now part of institutions all over the world, challenges graduate students to present their research in just three minutes using a single static slide. The goal is to explain complex scientific work in a way that a general audience can understand—no easy task!

Megan competed against 50 other participants across different fields and made it to the Finals Round at the University of Alberta. 

For her presentation, Megan wanted to include our Birdorable Black-capped Chickadee on her slide. We were honored to support her work and excited to see Birdorable featured in a scientific competition!

It's always rewarding to see Birdorable art used in meaningful ways, especially when it helps spread knowledge about birds and their behavior. We appreciate Megan for reaching out and wish her the best in her research and future competitions. If you’d like to see her presentation, you can check it out here: To Go or Not to Go.

Birds can be EXTRA too! In this design spotlight, we’re featuring a flamboyant and fun Birdorable species of hummingbird, the Tufted Coquette. This little one isn’t afraid to show off. Bursting with color, personality, and style, this quirky illustration is perfect for bird lovers who embrace their bold side.

What happens when you combine a cute cartoon hummingbird with a pop of vibrant color and a splash of attitude? You get this unapologetically bold design!

The Tufted Coquette features:

• A fabulous orange crest styled like a wild hairdo
• Eye-catching spots and patterns on its wings
• A magnificent two-tone beak

This design is a celebration of all things flamboyant and fun—a true ode to those who stand out from the flock! Whether it’s the vibrant bird itself or the loud-and-proud text, this design screams “be you, be EXTRA!”

Our unique “EXTRA” Tufted Coquette design is perfect for:

• Birders with personality who like a splash of humor
• Fans of colorful, bold bird designs
• Nature enthusiasts who celebrate uniqueness
• Anyone who loves standing out (or knows someone who does!)

This design is available on a variety of fun products that make great gifts for kids, adults, or anyone with an extra flair for life:

• T-Shirts for colorful, casual wear
• Tote Bags for outings with style
• Mugs to brighten up your coffee breaks
• Phone Cases to showcase your bold side
• Pillows to add a playful touch to your home

No matter where you take it or how you display it, this design brings a cheerful pop of personality wherever it goes. Birdorable’s “EXTRA” hummingbird design reminds us to celebrate our quirks, stand out, and have a little fun. Whether you’re rocking this design on a tee, gifting it to your favorite flamboyant birder, or decorating your space with its cheerful energy, it’s sure to bring smiles and a little extra flair to everyday life.

Be bold. Be colorful. Be EXTRA.

Penguins are often associated with icy landscapes and freezing temperatures, but the idea that they only live in cold climates is a common misconception. While some penguins thrive in frigid regions like Antarctica, many species are perfectly adapted to warmer environments.

Of the 18 recognized penguin species, only a few are true residents of Antarctica. Emperor Penguins and Adélie Penguins are the most iconic Antarctic dwellers, braving extreme cold and harsh winds. However, most penguin species actually prefer temperate or tropical climates. For instance, Galápagos Penguins are found on the equator, living on the volcanic shores of the Galápagos Islands. Their environment is far from icy—temperatures there can soar, and they rely on cold ocean currents to keep cool.

Other warm-weather penguins include the Humboldt Penguin of South America, which inhabits coastal deserts along the Pacific Ocean in Peru and Chile. These penguins use burrows and rocky crevices to escape the sun's heat. Similarly, African Penguins, also called "Jackass Penguins" for their braying call, are found on the beaches of southern Africa. They face challenges like sunburn and heat stress, adapting by nesting in shaded areas and being active during cooler parts of the day.

Even penguins in cooler climates don’t necessarily live in snow and ice year-round. Magellanic Penguins, for example, breed in Argentina and Chile, where summers are mild and even hot. They dig burrows to raise their chicks, keeping them sheltered from the elements.

What unites all penguin species is their dependence on the ocean for food and their unique adaptations to aquatic life. Penguins are excellent swimmers, using their streamlined bodies and powerful flippers to catch fish, krill, and squid. Their feathers are highly specialized, providing insulation and waterproofing, whether they’re swimming in icy waters or basking under the sun.

So why does the "penguins only live in cold places" myth persist? Media portrayals like movies and documentaries often focus on Antarctic penguins because of their dramatic and challenging environment. The stark contrast between the penguins' cute appearance and the harsh Antarctic wilderness makes for compelling storytelling. But in reality, penguins are far more diverse and versatile.

This myth also underscores the importance of understanding and protecting penguins in all their habitats. Whether they live on an icy expanse or a sun-soaked beach, penguins face threats from climate change, overfishing, and habitat destruction. By debunking myths and learning about their true lives, we can better appreciate these fascinating birds and take steps to help conserve them.

Next time you see a penguin-themed story or a cartoon set in Antarctica, remember: not all penguins are waddling around in the snow. Many are basking on sunny shores, thriving in environments far removed from the icy stereotype.

The term banding, also known as ringing in some countries, refers to the practice of placing a small, uniquely numbered band or ring around a bird’s leg. This is done primarily for research and conservation purposes. The bands help scientists and researchers track the bird’s movements, lifespan, population trends, and behavior over time.

Bird banding has been used for over a century as an effective way to study avian ecology. By attaching a lightweight, durable band to a bird, researchers can gather valuable data without causing harm to the bird. The bands are designed to stay on for the bird’s lifetime; they are carefully sized to ensure the bird can hunt, fly, and perch comfortably.

Banding is typically carried out by licensed professionals or trained volunteers. These experts use mist nets or other humane methods to safely catch birds. Once captured, the bird is identified, measured, weighed, and banded before being released. If the banded bird is later recaptured or the band is found, the unique ID number provides a wealth of information. For example, the data might reveal how far the bird has migrated, how long it has lived, or how its population is changing due to environmental factors.

There are two main types of bands:

1. Metal Bands: These are usually aluminum and include a unique number and the contact information of the organization managing the banding program.
2. Colored Bands: These are often used in combination with metal bands to allow researchers to identify birds from a distance without needing to recapture them. Colored bands may include small flaps or flags which make the numbers or letter and number combo easy to read in the field, without recapturing the bird.

Bird banding has contributed significantly to understanding migration patterns, breeding behaviors, and threats to bird populations. For instance, by studying the migration of Arctic Terns, researchers have discovered that these birds travel astonishing distances every year, from the Arctic to the Antarctic and back again. Banding data has also been crucial for identifying declining populations and informing conservation efforts. And nearly all of the data on bird longevity is known from banding efforts. A famous example is Wisdom, the Laysan Albatross who was banded as an adult in 1956, who is the oldest living bird at over 70 years old in 2024.

If you find a banded bird or a bird band, it’s essential to report it to the relevant authorities. In the United States, you can report bird bands to the USGS Bird Banding Laboratory. They will use the band number to learn about the bird’s history and add your report to the database, helping researchers with their studies. In most cases, they will also let you know about the bird's history.

Bird banding is an invaluable tool for understanding and protecting our feathered friends. It’s a small action that provides big insights into the fascinating world of birds.

For further study, we suggest reading What Scientists Have Learned from 100 Years of Bird Banding.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate your love for birds than with unique, adorable designs from Birdorable? For proud parrot parents, these fun Valentine’s-themed shirts and sweatshirts are perfect for showing your affection. With designs featuring Peach-faced Lovebirds, Cockatiels, and African Gray Parrots, there’s a style for avian enthusiasts who love these popular species. If you'd like to see a different species represented, please let us know!

The featured design with the Peach-faced (aka Rosy-faced) Lovebird says, "My [Lovebird] is my Valentine," paired with our sweet cartoon of a Rosy-faced Lovebird. It’s a perfect tribute to these charming little birds that symbolize affection and companionship. Known for their strong pair bonds, lovebirds are a natural fit for Valentine’s Day. This shirt lets you wear your love for your feathered friend on your sleeve!

We've go similar designs for fans of Cockatiels and African Gray Parrots! The Cockatiel design replaces the bird with a delightful cartoon Cockatiel, complete with its signature crest. Cockatiels are social, playful, and full of personality, making them an excellent Valentine for bird lovers. The African Gray Parrot design is equally captivating, featuring one of the most intelligent and charismatic parrots in the avian world. African Grays are known for their ability to mimic sounds and words, so it’s only fitting that they take center stage in a Valentine’s Day design celebrating love and communication.

Each of these designs is available on both t-shirts and sweatshirts, offering comfort and versatility. Whether you want a casual tee for a cozy Valentine’s Day at home or a sweatshirt to stay warm on a winter walk, you’ll find the perfect fit. The cheerful text and heart accents make these designs festive while still subtle enough to wear year-round.

These shirts and sweatshirts also make thoughtful gifts! If you know someone who adores their bird, gifting them a design that features their favorite species is a heartfelt way to show you care. It’s a fun way to combine Valentine’s Day spirit with their passion for birds.

So why not let your feathered friend be your Valentine this year? With designs for Peach-faced Lovebirds, Cockatiels, and African Gray Parrots, you can celebrate your love for birds in style. Check out these delightful shirts and sweatshirts and make this Valentine’s Day a special one for you and your avian companions!

Some birds have an incredible trick for surviving the winter: they change the color of their feathers to blend in with snowy landscapes. This seasonal camouflage helps them avoid predators and stay warm in harsh environments. One of the most famous examples is the Rock Ptarmigan.

Rock Ptarmigans are experts at blending in. Found in Arctic and alpine regions, these birds molt twice a year. In summer, their mottled brown plumage blends with rocky terrain, while in winter, they switch to pure white feathers that match the snow. This transformation isn't just for looks—it also provides insulation, helping them conserve body heat in freezing temperatures.

The Willow Ptarmigan, closely related to the Rock Ptarmigan, also changes its feathers seasonally. Unlike its cousin, it has a thicker body and a reddish-brown upperparts on its summer coat. Males keep white underparts all year long; in winter, its white plumage extends over its whole body. Even its feet are feathered, acting like natural snowshoes to help it walk on snow.

Snow Buntings don’t turn entirely white, but develop paler plumage in winter. Though less dramatic than the ptarmigans' transformations, this subtle shift helps them better blend into frosty surroundings.

Birds aren’t the only animals with this winter wardrobe trick. The Arctic Fox is another master of disguise, trading its summer coat of brownish-gray for a thick, white pelt in winter. This helps it blend into snowy landscapes while staying warm. Similarly, the Snowshoe Hare transforms from brown to white, hiding from lynx and other predators. Even certain weasels, like the stoat or ermine, turn white in winter, retaining only a black-tipped tail.

Why do so many Arctic animals change color? It’s all about survival. Camouflage keeps predators and prey alike one step ahead in the harsh, unforgiving Arctic environment. As with birds, the transformation is linked to seasonal changes in daylight and temperature.

Unfortunately, climate change is disrupting this natural cycle. Warmer winters with less snow mean animals with white winter coats stand out against brown or gray backgrounds, making them easier to spot by predators. Protecting these species and their habitats is essential to help them continue thriving in a rapidly changing world.

The next time you see a photo of a perfectly camouflaged ptarmigan or a flock of Snow Buntings, remember the amazing adaptations that keep them safe and warm in winter’s harshest conditions.

The number of bird species in the world has long been considered to be around 10,000—a nice, round figure repeated in birding guides and scientific references for decades. However, the real number is far from static. It fluctuates as scientists make new discoveries, reclassify known species, and adjust classifications based on evolving research methods. Bird species counts also depend heavily on which taxonomy system is followed, with different organizations maintaining their own species lists based on scientific consensus, research updates, and classification philosophies.

Taxonomy is the science of classifying organisms, and for birds, this is a constantly evolving field. Scientists might find that what was once thought to be a single species is actually two or more distinct species—a process called "splitting." This often happens when new genetic research reveals deep differences between populations that might look similar at first glance but are not interbreeding or have distinct behaviors or ranges. The opposite process, "lumping," occurs when two species thought to be separate are determined to be the same species after closer examination.

Recently, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, through its birding resources like eBird, Merlin, and the Clements Checklist, updated its global bird taxonomy. Their latest count now recognizes 11,145 bird species worldwide. While this increase might sound like a sudden bird explosion, most of the changes come from taxonomic revisions rather than the discovery of entirely new birds.

In the latest update, only three newly described bird species were added. The rest of the changes come from reclassifications. A significant 141 species were added due to "splitting," recognizing separate populations as distinct species. On the flip side, 16 species were "lumped," reducing the total number in those cases. These updates are based on cutting-edge research, including DNA analysis, field observations, and changes in understanding of bird distribution and ecology.

Taxonomic revisions are more than just paperwork for ornithologists. They have real-world implications for conservation efforts. When a species is split into multiple new species, each new species might have a much smaller population or range than previously thought, highlighting the need for more targeted conservation efforts. Similarly, newly described species might be at risk but previously overlooked because they were considered part of a more common species.

So, how many bird species are there? While the new figure from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology stands at 11,145, it’s safe to say the exact number will continue to change. Bird taxonomy is a dynamic field, constantly reshaped by new research, technological advancements, and even new discoveries in remote or understudied parts of the world. For birders and ornithologists, keeping up with the ever-changing bird list is just part of the fun!

The American Birding Association (ABA) has selected the Common Loon as its Bird of the Year for 2025.

The ABA's Bird of the Year program aims to inspire and educate birding enthusiasts by spotlighting a particular species annually. The program began in 2011 with the American Kestrel chosen as the first Bird of the Year. Since then, the organization has chosen a diverse range of American species to be their honored annual bird, from the Green Heron (2014) to the Burrowing Owl (2022), and from Hawaii's 'I'iwi (2018) to the Golden-winged Warbler last year.

Choosing the Common Loon for 2025 highlights the species' significance in North American birding culture and its distinctive presence in northern aquatic habitats.

Renowned for its haunting calls and striking black-and-white plumage, the Common Loon is a symbol of wilderness across its range, which includes the northern United States and Canada. Its eerie yodels and tremolos resonate over tranquil lakes, creating an unforgettable auditory experience for those fortunate enough to hear them.

The Common Loon's selection as Bird of the Year also underscores the importance of conservation efforts. While currently stable, loon populations face threats from habitat degradation, pollution, and climate change. By focusing on this species, the ABA aims to raise awareness about the challenges loons encounter and promote initiatives to protect their habitats.

Since the beginning, the ABA has highlighted avian artists as part of the Bird of the Year selection and celebration. Minnesota artist Sam Zimmerman was chosen to be the Common Loon cover artist. Zimmerman's work delves into the landscapes and creatures of the western Great Lakes, drawing from his Ojibwe heritage to capture and preserve indigenous stories. 

The Common Loon has a wide natural range. It breeds on freshwater bodies across much of northern North America, as well as parts of Iceland.  During the winter it can be found on large bodies of water across North America, including coastal areas; it also winters along coastlines in Europe. In some English-speaking countries, its known as the Great Northern Diver.

The species is especially recognized for its stunning breeding plumage, a hallmark of its summer presence in northern lakes. During the breeding season, this majestic bird transforms into a striking figure of black-and-white elegance, featuring a glossy black head, a distinctive black-and-white checkered back, and intricate stripes and bands around its neck. This sharp and dramatic plumage perfectly complements its piercing red eyes, which aid in underwater hunting. In stark contrast, the Common Loon's winter plumage (all we ever get to see here in Florida) is subdued and understated. The black-and-white brilliance fades into a muted grayish-brown above, with a white belly and face, designed for camouflage in open water. We were able to see loons on the first day of the year -- always a treat to see the ABA's Bird of the Year during it's special year!

Throughout 2025, the ABA plans to feature the Common Loon in various publications and events, offering educational content and opportunities for birders to engage with and learn about this iconic species. This year-long celebration encourages both seasoned birders and newcomers to deepen their appreciation for the Common Loon and contribute to its conservation.

The ABA's designation of the Common Loon as the 2025 Bird of the Year serves as a tribute to its distinctive presence in North America's avian landscape. Through artistic collaboration and educational outreach, the association seeks to inspire a collective effort to preserve and cherish this emblematic species for generations to come.

Are there Common Loons where you live? Have you seen one lately? Do you call them loons, or Great Northern Divers? Share you loony stories below!

Birdorable Swimming Loons swag on Etsy

The Bald Eagle has long been synonymous with American ideals of freedom and strength. Its image graces the Great Seal of the United States, official documents, military insignia, and currency. However, it wasn't until December 24, 2024, that the Bald Eagle was officially designated as the national bird of the United States.

The journey to this official recognition spans nearly 250 years. In 1782, the Bald Eagle was adopted as the central image on the Great Seal, symbolizing the nation's ideals. Despite this prominent placement, no formal legislation had ever declared the Bald Eagle as the national bird. This oversight persisted until President Joe Biden signed the bill into law on Christmas Eve 2024, amending the United States Code to include the Bald Eagle's official status.

The legislation was introduced by Senator Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, a state renowned for its significant Bald Eagle population. The bill received bipartisan support, reflecting a unified acknowledgment of the Bald Eagle's symbolic importance. 

Historically, the Bald Eagle's selection as a national emblem was not without debate. Benjamin Franklin famously criticized the choice, favoring the Wild Turkey instead. In a letter to his daughter, Franklin described the Bald Eagle as a bird of "bad moral character," expressing his preference for the turkey, which he deemed more respectable.

Beyond its symbolic role, the Bald Eagle's conservation story is remarkable. By the mid-20th century, factors like habitat destruction, hunting, and pesticide use had driven the species to the brink of extinction. Conservation efforts, including the banning of DDT and legal protections, facilitated a significant recovery. In 2007, the Bald Eagle was removed from the threatened and endangered species list, and by 2020, the Bald Eagle population had reached approximately 316,700 individuals, a testament to successful preservation initiatives.

The official designation of the Bald Eagle as the national bird not only corrects a historical oversight but also reinforces the nation's commitment to preserving its natural heritage. As Jack Davis, co-chair of the National Bird Initiative for the National Eagle Center, aptly stated, "For nearly 250 years, we called the Bald Eagle the national bird when it wasn't. But now the title is official, and no bird is more deserving."

This formal recognition ensures that the Bald Eagle's legacy as a symbol of American freedom and resilience is enshrined for future generations.