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.

Common Loon in breeding plumage by Scott Heron [CC BY-SA 2.0]

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. 

Common Loon in winter plumage by Bill Thompson [Public Domain]

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

Birdorable Bald Eagle with USA flag

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. 

Photo of Bald Eagle in flight

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.

Bald Eagle photo

Patriotic Bald Eagle Merch from Birdorable

Around the world, birds are often seen as symbols of new beginnings, hope, and good fortune. As people celebrate the New Year, several cultures associate specific birds with prosperity, renewal, and happiness. Here’s a look at some birds that herald the New Year in different traditions.

Birdorable Barn Swallow flying

Swallows in Europe

Swallows, like the cosmopolitan Barn Swallow, are often linked to the coming of spring and new beginnings. In many European cultures, seeing the first swallow of the year is considered a sign of prosperity and a successful year ahead. In folklore, swallows building a nest on your home is believed to bring good fortune.

Birdorable Bald Eagle flying in Alaska

Eagles in Indigenous Cultures

In many Indigenous cultures of the Americas, the eagle (Bald Eagle or Golden Eagle) is a powerful spiritual symbol associated with strength, wisdom, and renewal. Its ability to soar high in the sky makes it a messenger between humans and the divine, symbolizing spiritual awakening and a fresh start.

Birdorable Eurasian Collared Dove

Doves in Christianity and Western Traditions

Doves often represent peace and the Holy Spirit in Christian symbolism. The white feathers of a domesticated Eurasian Collared Dove symbolize purity and a fresh start.

Birdorable Magpie

Magpies in the UK and Beyond

According to British and Irish folklore, the number of magpies seen at once can predict fortunes for the coming year. "One for sorrow, two for joy" begins a famous rhyme about magpies, with two or more birds being a positive sign.

Birdorable Red-crowned Cranes

Cranes in Japan

Red-crowned Cranes are revered in Japanese culture as symbols of longevity, good health, and happiness. The tradition of folding 1,000 origami cranes (senbazuru) is tied to wishes for peace and prosperity. During New Year celebrations, cranes are commonly featured in art, decorations, and even traditional kimono designs.

Birdorable White Storks

Storks in Eastern Europe

Storks are thought to bring good luck and new life. In countries like Poland and Romania, seeing a stork at the start of the year is considered a blessing. White Storks are also linked to fertility and family happiness, often appearing on homes as good-luck symbols.

Birds have long inspired human cultures with their ability to fly, migrate, and sing. As symbols of freedom, hope, and change, they remain powerful icons of renewal as people around the globe celebrate the start of a new year.

We at Birdorable wish all of our fans and followers a beautiful, prosperous, healthy, and bird-filled 2025! All the best to everyone for the new year!

Birdorables as Symbols of Good Fortune & More

As the year comes to a close, we’re looking back at some fun Birdorable stats from the past 12 months. From new bird designs to exciting blog posts and more cute bird-themed goodies, here’s 2024 by the numbers:

39 New Bird Species Added

We added a colorful variety of new birds, from striking raptors to adorable backyard favorites. Some of the highlights include the magnificent Bat Falcon, the colorful African Chaffinch, the vibrant Southern Red Bishop, and the beloved little Bushtit. With all of the new additions, our Birdorable family now includes a whopping 824 species of bird!

56 Birds Refreshed & Renewed

With fresh new illustrations, we updated and up-cuted 56 birds this year. Updated Birdorable bird species include the backyard favorite Tufted Titmouse, the familiar Ruby-throated Hummingbird, the ubiquitous Barn Swallow, and the charming California Quail.

100+ Fun Bird Related Blog Posts

We shared fun bird facts, conservation stories, species spotlights, and merchandise features throughout the year with 107 new blog posts. From reading about bird migration to exploring unusual nesting habits, discovering new species and learning bird-related terms, we love connecting with fellow bird lovers through our blog.

Stilt Species Spotlight: Learn About the World's 6 Stilts

There are six species of stilt in the world. Here at Birdorable, as part of Avocet & Stilt Week, we're introducing four new to our family. These will be joining the two existing Birdorable stilts -- and completing the family!

Songs Inspired by Birds: A Melodic Connection

Birds have long been a source of inspiration for musicians, symbolizing freedom, beauty, and nature. Songs about birds or those that mention birds capture these themes in melodies and lyrics, resonating with listeners in various ways. Here’s a look at some iconic songs that feature our feathered friends. Here are some catchy tunes along with the birds that inspired them.

Birds and the Big 2024 Cicada Emergence: A Natural Feast

Periodical cicadas are among nature's most fascinating insects, with their synchronized emergences occurring every 13 or 17 years. These insects spend most of their lives underground as nymphs, feeding on tree roots. When they finally emerge, they transform the landscape in remarkable ways, not just for themselves, but...

Winged Harbingers: The Annual Return of the Swallows to Capistrano

Every spring, a small but mighty signal marks the transition from winter to spring in San Juan Capistrano, California. We're not looking for a blooming flower, or feeling for a warm breeze -- we're awaiting the celebrated return of the swallows to Mission San Juan Capistrano. This...

Top-Selling Birdorables in 2024

  • Best-Selling Design: Our State Birdorable of Maryland, the Baltimore Oriole was our most popular selling design in 2024.
  • Most Popular Product Type: T-shirts offered via the Birdorable Amazon shop were the most popular product type for Birdorable fans in 2024.

Social Media Highlights

We shared hundreds of bird-themed posts across our socials, connecting with birders and nature enthusiasts worldwide via X, Facebook, Threads, and our new account with Bluesky

Looking Ahead

As we wrap up the year, we’re excited to keep growing our flock with more birds, new products, and even more fun bird facts and stories. Thanks for being part of our Birdorable journey — here’s to another year of celebrating birds together!

Birdorable Martial Eagle

The Martial Eagle is one of Africa's most powerful and impressive birds of prey. As the largest eagle in Africa by weight, it’s a formidable predator known for its strength, keen eyesight, and adaptability. With its striking appearance and commanding presence, it has earned a reputation as a top apex predator in its habitat.

Martial Eagles are massive, with a wingspan reaching nearly 8 feet (!) and a body length of 31-38 inches. Their plumage is a striking contrast of dark brown upperparts and a white underside covered with dark spots. Their piercing yellow eyes and strong, hooked beak complete the look of a powerful hunter.

These eagles are found across sub-Saharan Africa, occupying a variety of habitats including savannas, woodlands, and open plains. They prefer areas with tall trees or rocky outcrops for nesting and open spaces for hunting. Despite their adaptability, their population is declining due to habitat loss and human conflict.

Photo of a Martial Eagle on a branch

Martial Eagles are exceptional hunters, preying on a wide range of animals including birds, reptiles, and mammals. They are known to take down prey as large as small antelope and monitor lizards. Their hunting technique involves soaring high in the sky while scanning the ground with their extraordinary vision, then diving down at high speed to snatch unsuspecting prey.

These eagles are solitary and territorial. They build large nests made of sticks, often located in tall trees or on cliffs. A pair may reuse the same nest for many years, adding new material each breeding season. Females typically lay one egg, which she incubates while the male provides food. The chick fledges after about 100 days but may depend on its parents for several more months.

Unfortunately, Martial Eagles are classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Their numbers are declining due to habitat destruction, hunting, and poisoning by farmers who mistakenly believe they threaten livestock. Conservation efforts focus on habitat protection, public education, and reducing human-wildlife conflict.

The Martial Eagle’s strength, elegance, and role as a top predator make it a symbol of wilderness and power in Africa’s wild landscapes. Its continued survival depends on ongoing conservation efforts to protect its habitats and reduce threats from humans.

Photo of a Martial Eagle with prey

Martial Eagle Gift Ideas from Birdorable

Birdorable Is It Pileated... or Pileated Woodpecker? T-Shirt

We’re excited to shine the spotlight on one of our favorite new funny Birdorable designs, featuring our Pileated Woodpecker. The design is based on its well-known pronunciation diversity: is it PIE-lee-ated or PILL-ee-ated? This striking design is sure to delight bird lovers, word nerds, and woodpecker fans alike.

The Pileated Woodpecker is one of the largest woodpecker species in North America, instantly recognizable by its bold red crest and loud, resonant calls. These birds are known for their impressive drumming sounds, which echo through forests as they excavate wood for food or nesting. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a casual nature lover, spotting this magnificent bird is always a treat!

At Birdorable, we celebrate birds in a way that’s both adorable and educational. This design highlights the Pileated Woodpecker’s charm while poking fun at the age-old pronunciation debate among bird lovers. The text reads:

“Pileated -or is it- Pileated? Woodpecker”

It’s a cheeky play on the uncertainty many birders encounter when discussing this incredible species. Or on the certainty that some feel about their preferred pronunciation -- and having issues with those who choose another way.

Accompanied by our cute, cartoon rendition of the bird set against a forest backdrop, the design is stylish, fun, and perfect for bird enthusiasts who appreciate a little humor with their ornithology.

Perfect for Any Bird Lover

This Birdorable Pileated Woodpecker design is available on a wide range of products:

  • Apparel for adults and kids
  • Pillows to cozy up your home decor
  • Phone cases for bird lovers on the go
  • Tote bags for eco-friendly outings
  • Mugs for your birdwatching coffee moments

It’s an ideal gift idea for birdwatchers, wildlife enthusiasts, and nature lovers who enjoy unique, creative designs with a humorous twist.

The Birdwatcher’s Pronunciation Debate

So, how do YOU pronounce “Pileated”?

  • PIE-lee-ated
  • PILL-ee-ated

While both pronunciations are widely accepted, the fun lies in the debate! Whether you say it one way or the other, we can all agree the Pileated Woodpecker is an iconic forest bird that deserves admiration.

Discover this adorable design and bring a little Birdorable charm to your life.

Shop Our Pileated Woodpecker Collection Now

Birdorable Spinifex Pigeon

Today we're concluding our 2024 Birdorable Bonanza with a spectacular new addition to our pigeon and dove family: it's the Spinifex Pigeon!

The Spinifex Pigeon is a unique and striking bird native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Australia. With its distinctive appearance and ability to thrive in some of the harshest environments, this pigeon is a fascinating example of adaptation to desert life.

The Spinifex Pigeon is a small, ground-dwelling bird characterized by its chestnut-brown plumage and bold facial markings. Its white face has black stripes running across the eyes and throat, creating a mask-like appearance. Its body is patterned with fine barring that helps it blend into the rocky and grassy landscapes it inhabits. A tall, spiky crest atop its head gives the bird its unmistakable silhouette -- and its name. 

These pigeons are most commonly found in areas dominated by spinifex grass, a tough and spiky vegetation that provides these birds both shelter and camouflage. They also inhabit rocky outcrops and dry scrublands, where their cryptic plumage helps them avoid predators. Unlike many pigeons, the Spinifex Pigeon is highly terrestrial and spends much of its time walking on the ground in search of food.

Spinifex Pigeon by Graham Winterflood [CC BY-SA 2.0]

Spinifex Pigeons primarily feed on seeds, which they forage from the ground. They are well-adapted to the arid climate, seeking out water sources in their environment. When water is available, they can often be seen congregating at waterholes during the cooler parts of the day.

In breeding, the Spinifex Pigeon is monogamous, and pairs typically remain together year-round. The female lays one or two eggs in a simple scrape on the ground, often sheltered by spinifex grass or rocks. Both parents share the duties of incubation and feeding the chicks, which hatch fully covered in down and are quickly able to move about.

The Spinifex Pigeon is not currently threatened, as it is well-adapted to its environment and has a stable population across its range. Its ability to survive in extreme conditions and its striking appearance make it a favorite among birdwatchers exploring Australia’s outback.

Spinifex Pigeon Gifts from Birdorable

🎉 And that’s a wrap for the 2024 Birdorable Bonanza! Over the past 15 days, we’ve introduced a fun lineup of new birds, each more fascinating and adorable than the last. From vibrant songbirds to unique desert dwellers, these additions celebrate the diversity and beauty of the avian world. Thank you for joining us on this exciting journey—we hope you’ve enjoyed meeting our new Birdorable friends as much as we’ve loved sharing them with you. Stay tuned for more bird fun and surprises to come! 🐦❤️

2024 Birdorable Bonanza Bird #14

Understanding the Common Cuckoo’s Unique Lifestyle

Birdorable Common Cuckoo

Happy December! As our Birdorable Bonanza 2024 starts to wind down, we're adding a tricky bird native to a wide range across the Old World: it's the Common Cuckoo!

The Common Cuckoo is a fascinating bird known for its unique breeding behavior and its iconic two-note call, which signals the arrival of spring in many parts of Europe and Asia. This medium-sized bird is widely distributed, breeding across Europe and Asia and migrating to Africa and southern Asia for the winter.

Adult Common Cuckoos have a sleek, pigeon-like appearance with gray plumage, a long tail, and barred underparts. Males and females are similar, although females can also display a rufous (reddish-brown) morph. They are agile flyers and often spotted perched on trees or wires in open habitats like woodlands, heathlands, and farmland.

The Common Cuckoo is renowned for its iconic "cuck-oo" call, which is one of the most recognizable bird sounds in the world. Typically made by males during the breeding season, this two-note melody is a harbinger of spring across many parts of Europe and Asia. The call is often heard echoing through woodlands, meadows, and wetlands, signaling the bird’s presence long before it's seen. Interestingly, the female has a distinct bubbling chuckle call, often used during courtship or around host nests. The male’s "cuck-oo" has inspired folklore, poetry, and music for centuries, making the Common Cuckoo a cultural as well as a natural icon.

Common Cuckoo by Andy Morffew [CC BY 2.0]

The most remarkable feature of the Common Cuckoo is its brood parasitism. Instead of raising its own chicks, a female Common Cuckoo lays her eggs in the nests of other bird species. She often targets small songbirds, such as reed warblers, meadow pipits, or dunnocks, tricking them into incubating her eggs and raising her chicks.

To successfully parasitize a nest, the female cuckoo waits for the host bird to leave and quickly replaces one of its eggs with her own. Cuckoo eggs are cleverly adapted to resemble the host species’ eggs! Female cuckoos 'specialize' in different types of hosts, matching their eggs in color and pattern, to minimize the chance of detection. Once the cuckoo chick hatches, it may instinctively push the host’s eggs or chicks out of the nest, ensuring it receives all the food and care from the unsuspecting foster parents. This behavior, while fascinating, often comes at the cost of the host bird’s reproductive success. Studies have shown that Common Cuckoos have parasitized nearly 300 different host species!

Common Cuckoos are migratory birds, traveling long distances between their breeding and wintering grounds. After the breeding season, they undertake solo migrations to sub-Saharan Africa or southern Asia. Remarkably, juvenile cuckoos navigate these journeys alone, guided by innate instincts rather than parental guidance.

The Common Cuckoo’s distinctive behavior and evocative call make it one of the most intriguing and iconic birds in the avian world, captivating birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Common Cuckoo T-Shirts & Gifts from Birdorable

😞 Our Birdorable Bonanza will wrap up tomorrow! Our last new bird is a tiny desert dweller with a big personality! Known for its striking crest and sandy camouflage, this bird thrives in Australia’s arid landscapes. Can you guess what it is? 🤔 Drop your guesses below!

Birdorable Siberian Sand-Plover

Today's flashy new shorebird is known for breeding in remote parts of Siberia -- it's the Siberian Sand-Plover!

The Siberian Sand-Plover, known by several other names, including the Lesser Sand Plover, is a small, chunky wading bird that breeds in the high-altitude tundra of Siberia and Central Asia. This bird is well-adapted to its environment, and its remarkable long-distance migrations make it a fascinating species for bird enthusiasts worldwide.

Adult Siberian Sand Plovers are compact birds with a rounded body, a short black bill, and relatively long legs. During the breeding season, males sport a striking plumage with a chestnut-colored breast band, white underparts, and a black mask that contrasts with their sandy-brown upperparts. Females and non-breeding birds have more subdued coloration, which helps them blend into the coastal or sandy habitats they frequent during migration and winter.

The bird’s breeding grounds in Siberia are remote and harsh, consisting of rocky, high-altitude plateaus and tundra. Here, Siberian Sand-Plovers lay their eggs in shallow scrapes lined with moss or other vegetation. The precocial chicks are ready to leave the nest and forage soon after hatching.

Siberian Sand-Plover by Se Lena [CC BY 4.0]

Once the breeding season concludes, Siberian Sand-Plovers embark on incredible migratory journeys, traveling thousands of miles to their wintering grounds. They spend the winter in coastal zones around Australia and nearby islands. These migrations highlight their adaptability, as they shift from nesting on arid tundra to feeding on mudflats and sandy beaches.

During winter, the Siberian Sand-Plover is often spotted feeding in flocks, picking at crustaceans, insects, and other small invertebrates along the shoreline. Their diet varies with availability, and they are adept at finding food in intertidal zones.

Considered endangered with a decreasing population, the Siberian Sand-Plover faces threats from habitat loss, particularly along its migratory and wintering grounds. Coastal development, pollution, and climate change impact the mudflats and beaches essential for their survival. 

This resilient bird, with its impressive migrations and adaptability, is a true marvel of the avian world. Birdwatchers treasure the opportunity to observe Siberian Sand Plovers, whether in their remote breeding habitats or along the bustling shorelines of their wintering grounds.

Siberian Sand-Plover Merch from Birdorable

Tomorrow’s Birdorable Bonanza introduces an Old World bird famous for its sneaky parenting style and iconic call that announces spring! Can you guess what it is? Share your guesses below! 🤔

2024 Birdorable Bonanza Bird #12

Bat Falcon: A Small Raptor with Big Talents

Birdorable Bat Falcon

Did you see yesterday's clues and guess today's new superhero bird? Today a special species of falcon joins Birdorable: na na na na na na na na na na na na na -- Bat Falcon!

The Bat Falcon is a small but powerful bird of prey native to the Americas. Found in forests, savannas, and open areas from Mexico down through the middle of South America, this striking falcon is a skilled predator known for its agility and speed. Despite its name, bats are just one of the many aerial prey items it hunts.

The Bat Falcon is visually striking, with a dark slate-gray back, a white throat and chest, and bold, rufous-colored lower belly and thighs. Its sharp, hooked beak and bright yellow legs add to its fierce appearance. Males and females have similar plumage, though females tend to be slightly larger (as is the case for most birds of prey).

As a fast and agile hunter, the Bat Falcon primarily preys on small birds, insects, and, yes, bats. It hunts by perching on high vantage points like treetops or cliffs, waiting for prey to appear. Once it spots a target, it launches into an acrobatic dive, using its speed and precision to snatch the unsuspecting victim mid-flight. Its ability to capture fast-moving prey like swifts and bats showcases its incredible hunting skills.

Bat Falcon by Arthur Bruck [CC0]

Bat Falcons are usually solitary or found in pairs. Often quiet on their own, Bat Falcons are known for their sharp, high-pitched calls while paired up, which help them communicate with each other, or signal territorial boundaries. They often nest in tree cavities, abandoned woodpecker holes, or even on cliffs. The female typically lays two to four eggs, which she incubates while the male provides food. Once the chicks hatch, both parents share the responsibility of feeding them.

The Bat Falcon’s speed, agility, and bold coloration make it a fascinating bird of prey that highlights the diversity and adaptability of raptors in the Americas.

Bat Falcon! Gifts From Birdorable

Tomorrow’s Birdorable Bonanza takes us to the shores with a tiny, feathered traveler! This adorable wader breeds in Siberia and loves sandy beaches. Can you guess what it is? Drop your guesses below! 🤔