Puerto Rico Week continues today with another new endemic bird added to Birdorable: the Yellow-shouldered Blackbird!

The Yellow-shouldered Blackbird is known locally as mariquita de Puerto Rico. or just mariquita.  Across South America, mariquita refers to a ladybug; in Caribbean countries its the name of a fish. Puerto Ricans may also refer to the bird as Capitán.  This striking blackbird gets its common English name from the bright yellow patches on its shoulders, which stand out against its otherwise glossy black plumage. Males and females look similar, though males are slightly larger, and tend to be more vocal.

The Yellow-shouldered Blackbird is primarily found along Puerto Rico’s southwest coast, especially in mangrove forests, coastal dry forests, and nearby open areas. While we tried to find this species on a couple of different outings during our Puerto Rico trip, this was one that we unfortunately missed. 

Despite its striking appearance and local nickname, the Yellow-shouldered Blackbird is not as well-known internationally as some other Puerto Rican birds, partly because it is critically endangered. Its population has declined drastically due to habitat loss, urban development, and one particularly sneaky threat: the Shiny Cowbird.

Shiny Cowbirds, like Brown-headed Cowbirds, are nest parasites. They lay their eggs in the nests of other birds—including Yellow-shouldered Blackbirds—and leave the host parents to raise their chicks. This behavior often leads to the failure of the blackbird’s own offspring, contributing to the population decline. In response, scientists and conservationists in Puerto Rico have worked hard to manage cowbird populations, protect blackbird nesting sites, and raise awareness about the species.

One of the most important conservation programs is the Yellow-shouldered Blackbird Recovery Plan, which includes habitat restoration, nest monitoring, and cowbird control. Thanks to these efforts, the population has stabilized in some areas, though the species remains at risk and conservation work continues to be crucial.

Yellow-shouldered Blackbirds are social and vocal, often forming small groups and communicating with a variety of calls. They feed mostly on insects, fruits, and nectar, and can sometimes be seen foraging in open fields or perched in mangrove branches. During breeding season, they build cup-shaped nests in trees or shrubs, usually near water, and may nest in loose colonies.

We're proud to bring this unique bird into the Birdorable lineup! Our Birdorable Yellow-shouldered Blackbird features the characteristic black body and bold yellow shoulder patch in our signature cute style. It’s a great way to celebrate this special species and help raise awareness about its conservation.

Be sure to check out our Birdorable shop for gifts and gear featuring the Yellow-shouldered Blackbird—perfect for bird fans, conservation supporters, and anyone who loves Puerto Rico’s incredible biodiversity. And stay tuned as we continue Puerto Rico Week, spotlighting more amazing endemic birds and the habitats that make the island such a special place for birdwatching and wildlife.

Puerto Rico Week continues with the introduction of another amazing new Birdorable—say hello to the Birdorable Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo!

This fascinating bird is another one of Puerto Rico’s 18 endemic bird species.  The Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo stands out not only for its unique look but also for its behavior and diet. As the name suggests, this bird is a specialist in catching lizards, which make up a significant part of its diet. It also feeds on a variety of large and small insects, including walking sticks, caterpillars, and centipedes. They have also been known to feed on coqui frogs. Lizard-Cuckoos use stealth and patience to ambush prey.

The Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo has a long, graduated tail with bold white tips, a long, slightly curved rectangular bill, and a reddish ring around the eye that gives it a somewhat intense expression. Its plumage is mostly warm brown above and pale below, with soft rufous coloring on the wings. When it moves through the forest, it does so quietly and slowly, often hopping along branches or creeping through vines—its movement is almost squirrel-like.

Although it is not considered rare, the Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo is often hard to spot due to its secretive nature. It prefers dense vegetation and forests, where it can sneak through the canopy and stay hidden. Birders often detect it by its call—a loud, laughing series of notes that rise and fall in pitch. This vocalization is often the first clue that a Lizard-Cuckoo is nearby, even if you can’t see it.

This species is found in a range of habitats across Puerto Rico, from dry coastal forests to wet montane forests, and even in suburban areas with mature trees and vegetation. The Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo is one of several island endemic Lizard-Cuckoo species, along with birds native to and named after Jamaica and Hispaniola. 

Despite its widespread range on the island, the Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo faces some of the same threats as other native birds. Habitat loss and fragmentation can reduce nesting opportunities and food sources. Invasive predators like feral cats and rats may also impact populations. Still, the species is currently considered stable, and its adaptability to different habitats has helped it persist.

We’re thrilled to add this unique bird to our Birdorable lineup! The Birdorable Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo captures the bird’s distinctive look in our signature cute style. Whether you’re a fan of island birding, cuckoos, or just love learning about unique wildlife, we hope you’ll enjoy this newly illustrated species.

Check out our shop for products featuring the Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo, from t-shirts to stickers and more. And stay tuned as we continue Puerto Rico Week, highlighting the island’s incredible endemic birds and the places you can go to see them!

We (Arthur & Amy) had the pleasure of visiting Puerto Rico for four short days at the end of February / early March of this year. We aimed to see endemics and enjoy the beautiful island they call Isla del Encanto as we drove all around the U.S. territory.

Puerto Rico is a paradise for birdwatchers, with a variety of habitats that support both endemic and migratory species. From lush rainforests to coastal reserves, the island offers incredible opportunities to see rare and beautiful birds. In our pre-trip research and practical experience we found that the island has a lot of great birding spots. Here are six top destinations for birdwatchers visiting Puerto Rico.

El Yunque National Forest

El Yunque is one of Puerto Rico’s most famous natural attractions and a top spot for birdwatching. Located just an hour from San Juan, this wonderland is the only tropical rainforest within the U.S. National Forest System. It is home to many tropical specialties and endemics. The lush landscape, filled with waterfalls and dense vegetation, provides a perfect setting for spotting a variety of species. At El Yunque we stopped at the amazing visitor center and drove the main road through the park, stopping here and there to enjoy the scenery and look for birds. We saw our first Puerto Rican Bullfinch here, as well as several Bananquits and Pearly-eyed Thrashers.

Bosque Estatal de Guánica

Bosque Estatal de Guánica is a unique dry forest on Puerto Rico’s southern coast and a top birding destination. This UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve is home to many endemic and Caribbean specialty birds. Unlike the lush rainforests of El Yunque, Guánica’s arid environment features cacti, thorny shrubs, and seasonal lagoons, attracting species adapted to drier conditions. With well-maintained trails and diverse birdlife, it’s an essential stop for birdwatchers exploring Puerto Rico. It was very hot during our mid-day visit to this magical dry forest habitat. We had learned that this was one of the best spots to find the endemic Adelaide's Warbler, and we were delighted to find a couple of individuals here during our walk. 

Bosque Estatal de Maricao

This mountainous forest in western Puerto Rico is home to a variety of endemics, including the Puerto Rican Tanager, Puerto Rican Bullfinch, and Puerto Rican Tody. The cool, high-altitude environment supports unique bird species that can’t be found in lower elevations. The winding roads and trails provide great birdwatching opportunities, making this a must-visit for birders seeking rare species. For those looking to see the elusive Elfin Woods Warbler, Bosque Estatal de Maricao is the best place to visit. We were very happy to find our target here, as well as adding several others to our list: Puerto Rican Spindalis, Puerto Rican Woodpecker, and (non-endemic) Scaly-naped Pigeon.

Bosque Estatal de Cambalache

For those who enjoy rugged trails and a more off-the-beaten-path birding experience, Bosque Estatal de Cambalache is an excellent choice. The dense forest and quiet surroundings provide a peaceful setting for birdwatching, with well-maintained trails that offer great chances for spotting birds. This spot is also popular with mountain bikers, so we had to keep on our toes while hiking the perimeter trail. Here we finally saw our first Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoos in the deep forest habitat.

Parque Nacional Cerro Gordo

This coastal park offers stunning ocean views and excellent birding opportunities. Located west of San Juan, it features a mix of open forest and coastal habitats, attracting seabirds, raptors, and endemic songbird species. Hikers and birdwatchers alike enjoy the scenic trails. Here we added Puerto Rican Flycatcher to our list, along with great views of Puerto Rican Spindalis, Puerto Rican Woodpecker, and non-endemics Venezuelan Troupial, Magnificent Frigatebird, and Smooth-billed Ani. 

Bosque Estatal de Río Abajo

If you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the rare and endangered Puerto Rican Amazon, Bosque Estatal de Río Abajo is the place to visit. This state forest is a key site for the parrot’s recovery program, and with some luck, birders can spot them flying overhead or hear their calls echoing through the trees. We were not among them; we had a hard time with parking and trespassing issues here so it was a no-go for us. Other birders have had better luck and this location is nearly always included in birder trip lists for Puerto Rico.

Bonus Spot: Hacienda La Esperanza

One of the top birding hotspots in Puerto Rico, Hacienda La Esperanza in Manatí is the top-ranked eBird location on the island by both species and checklists. This nature reserve was formerly a sugarcane plantation and today features wetlands, forests, and grasslands. The variety of habitats makes it a top spot for birders, though we did not make it here during our travels. Endemics often seen here include Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo, PR Mango, PR Woodpecker, PR Flycatcher, PR Spindalis, PR Euphonia, PR Oriole, and PR Bullfinch.

Puerto Rico offers some of the best birdwatching in the Caribbean, with diverse ecosystems that support an incredible range of bird species. Whether you’re exploring the rainforests, coastlines, or mountain forests, you’ll have the chance to see some of the island’s most beautiful and rare birds. With a good pair of binoculars and a little patience, you’re sure to have an unforgettable birding experience like we did!

As our special Puerto Rico Week rolls on, we’re excited to introduce a new member of our Birdorable family: the Puerto Rican Woodpecker!

This striking bird is another of Puerto Rico’s 18 endemic bird species. With its glossy steel-blue body, deep red throat, and white facial markings, the Puerto Rican Woodpecker stands out both in appearance and behavior. It’s the only woodpecker species found year-round in Puerto Rico, and therefore plays a vital role in the island’s ecosystems.

The Puerto Rican Woodpecker can be found across much of the island, from lowland forests and mangroves to mountain woodlands and even urban parks. It’s a familiar sight for many locals and visitors, often heard before it’s seen—thanks to its sharp, rhythmic drumming on tree trunks or even utility poles.

Like other woodpeckers, the Puerto Rican Woodpecker uses its strong bill to excavate nest cavities and search for insects hiding in bark. It also feeds on fruits, nuts, and seeds, making it an important player in seed dispersal and pest control. Interestingly, observers have noted that female Puerto Rican Woodpeckers tend to forage higher in trees than their male counterparts -- but only during breeding season. All birds tend to forage at a maximum height of 17 meters (about 56 feet).

The Puerto Rican Woodpecker is considered a symbol of Puerto Rico’s natural heritage. While it’s still relatively common and not currently endangered, it depends on healthy forest habitats to thrive. Protecting Puerto Rico’s diverse woodlands helps ensure this iconic bird continues to drum away for generations to come.

Our Birdorable Puerto Rican Woodpecker captures the charm of this unique species in a cute and colorful design. Be sure to check out our selection of gifts and apparel featuring this new Birdorable species, and stay tuned as we continue to celebrate the amazing birds of Puerto Rico all week long!

We’re excited to introduce a brand-new Birdorable for Puerto Rico Week—meet the Birdorable Adelaide’s Warbler!

This small, bright yellow warbler is one of Puerto Rico’s 18 endemic bird species, meaning it’s found only on the island. With its soft gray back, white eye-ring, and hyperactive nature, the Adelaide’s Warbler is a favorite among birdwatchers. It flits through the trees searching for insects, often making its presence known with a high-pitched, buzzy song. Unlike some other warblers that migrate between breeding and wintering grounds, Adelaide’s Warbler stays in Puerto Rico year-round, making it a reliable sighting for bird lovers exploring the island.

Adelaide’s Warbler (Setophaga adelaidae) was named after Maria Antoinette Adelaide Florentia del Carmen Swift Washburne, the daughter of ornithologist Robert Swift. While little is recorded about Adelaide herself, the bird that carries her name is an important part of Puerto Rico’s unique avian ecosystem. The species prefers dry forests and coastal scrublands, though it can also be found in some montane forests at higher elevations. It’s a frequent resident of Bosque Estatal de Guánica, Bosque Estatal de Maricao, and El Yunque National Forest, some of the island’s best birding spots. These forests are home to several other endemic birds, so a visit to these areas might reward birdwatchers with sightings of the Puerto Rican Tody, Puerto Rican Spindalis, or even the rare Elfin Woods Warbler.

Adelaide’s Warbler is an active forager, constantly moving through trees and shrubs in search of insects and spiders. It often hangs upside down from branches while picking prey off leaves, similar to chickadees and other warblers. Though its movements can make it tricky to spot, its distinctive buzzy, high-pitched song is a good clue that one is nearby. This vocal little bird plays an important role in Puerto Rico’s ecosystem by helping to control insect populations.

We’re thrilled to add the Birdorable Adelaide’s Warbler to our collection of cute cartoon birds. Its cheerful yellow plumage and lively personality make it a wonderful addition to our Birdorable flock. Check out our Birdorable gifts and gear featuring this Puerto Rican specialty, and stay tuned for more fun special bird posts as we continue celebrating Puerto Rico Week!

Welcome to Puerto Rico Week on the Birdorable Blog! This week, we’re celebrating the incredible birdlife of Puerto Rico, an island rich in biodiversity and home to unique endemic bird species. From the rare Puerto Rican Amazon to the tiny, energetic Puerto Rican Tody, these birds can’t be found anywhere else in the world. Throughout the week, we’ll explore their habitats, conservation efforts, and fun bird facts that make Puerto Rico a must-visit destination for bird lovers. Stay tuned for exciting posts highlighting the island’s feathered wonders!

Puerto Rico is home to a unique collection of birds that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. These species are known as endemic birds, meaning they have evolved and adapted exclusively to the island’s environment. Endemic birds are found in specific regions due to geographic isolation, which prevents them from interbreeding with other populations. Islands like Puerto Rico are hotspots for endemism because they provide unique habitats, limited migration options, and a stable environment for species to evolve separately from their mainland relatives.

Puerto Rico has 18 endemic bird species, each with its own adaptations and characteristics. Many of them thrive in the island’s forests, wetlands, and coastal regions.

Note that some lists include or exclude different species in their list of endemic birds of Puerto Rico. Depending on the taxonomy used, the splits or lumps accepted, and other factors, some lists include more than or fewer than the 18 species included here. 

Here’s a look at Puerto Rico’s endemic birds.

Puerto Rican Amazon 

One of the rarest birds in the world, the Puerto Rican Amazon is a bright green parrot with a red forehead and white eye rings. Due to habitat loss and illegal pet trade, this species nearly went extinct, but conservation efforts have helped its population slowly recover. This is one of two Puerto Rican endemics that we currently have on Birdorable (note: we'll add more later this week!). This bird is also known as the Puerto Rican Parrot. We featured a species profile about this bird during our 2024 Bonanza: From Endangered to Hopeful. 

Puerto Rican Woodpecker 

This special woodpecker is the only woodpecker species native to Puerto Rico. It can be found in forests and urban areas, where it drills into tree trunks in search of insects. 

Puerto Rican Tody 

A tiny, bright green bird with a red throat and long bill, the Puerto Rican Tody is often seen darting through forests catching insects. Its small size and energetic nature make it a favorite among birdwatchers. There are five species of tody in the world. The Broad-billed Tody and the Narrow-billed Tody are both only found on the island of Hispaniola. The Jamaican Tody is endemic to Jamaica, while the Cuban Tody is found on Cuba and a few small neighboring islands. This little cutie was our 800th Birdorable bird!

Puerto Rican Flycatcher 

This brownish bird is part of the tyrant flycatcher family. It can be spotted perched on branches, waiting to swoop down on insects. Unlike many songbirds, its call is more of a raspy sound than a melodic tune. This species is not included on some lists of Puerto Rican endemics due to possibly having a range that extends off the island. 

Puerto Rican Spindalis 

Also known as the Puerto Rican Stripe-headed Tanager, this colorful bird has black-and-white facial markings and a bright orange body. Males are more vibrantly colored than females, and they primarily eat fruits and berries. The Puerto Rican Spindalis is the national bird of Puerto Rico.

Puerto Rican Lizard-Cuckoo 

As its name suggests, this bird has a diet that includes lizards. It has a long tail, a curved bill, and a striking red eye-ring. Unlike other cuckoos, it does not lay its eggs in the nests of other birds.

Puerto Rican Nightjar 

This nocturnal bird is rarely seen but often heard at night. It has a soft, repetitive call and prefers dry forests. Thought to be extinct for much of the 20th century, it was rediscovered in 1961.

Yellow-shouldered Blackbird 

Once common in coastal mangroves, this blackbird has bright yellow shoulder patches. It has faced population declines due to habitat loss and nest parasitism by the Shiny Cowbird.

Puerto Rican Emerald 

This small hummingbird has shimmering green feathers and is found in forests and gardens across the island. It feeds on nectar and plays a crucial role in pollination.

Green Mango

Another endemic hummingbird, the Green Mango is slightly larger than the Puerto Rican Emerald. Males are entirely green, while females have a white belly.

Puerto Rican Owl

The Puerto Rican Owl is a small, brown, nocturnal bird of prey with a round head and no ear tufts. Unlike many owls, it has bare legs, which is reflected in its scientific name, nudipes, meaning “bare-footed.” It hunts insects, lizards, and small mammals in forests across the island. This owl is more often heard than seen, with a distinctive, repetitive call that echoes through the night. 

Puerto Rican Euphonia

The Puerto Rican Euphonia is a small, brightly colored songbird with a striking yellow belly and a deep blue cap. Males are more vibrant, while females have a duller greenish hue. This species is often found in forests and coffee plantations, feeding on fruits and berries. 

Puerto Rican Oriole 

A striking black-and-yellow bird, the Puerto Rican Oriole builds hanging nests and is often found in forests and gardens. It primarily feeds on nectar, fruit, and insects.

Puerto Rican Vireo 

A small grayish bird with a distinct song, the Puerto Rican Vireo is often seen in forests foraging for insects.

Elfin-woods Warbler

This rare warbler was only discovered in 1971. It has black-and-white plumage and prefers the high-altitude forests of Puerto Rico. Unlike many other warblers, it does not migrate.

Adelaide’s Warbler

A bright yellow warbler with grayish wings, this bird is active and vocal. It prefers dry forests and coastal areas.

Puerto Rican Tanager

This comparatively dull tanager species is mostly found in high-altitude forests. It travels in small groups, searching for insects, fruits, and seeds.

Puerto Rican Bullfinch 

A small, dark bird with a thick bill, the Puerto Rican Bullfinch is known for its intelligence and adaptability. It primarily feeds on seeds and insects.

Puerto Rico’s endemic birds are a vital part of the island’s biodiversity. Many of these species face threats from habitat destruction, climate change, and invasive species. Conservation programs, including habitat protection and captive breeding, have helped prevent extinctions, but continued efforts are necessary to ensure these birds thrive for future generations.

Bird names often reflect the history of ornithology, with many species named after explorers, scientists, and historical figures. In recent years there has been a growing movement to remove honorific bird names altogether. Many of these names celebrate individuals with colonial ties or otherwise problematic pasts, and it is felt that birds should have names that reflect their appearance, behavior, or habitat -- instead of human figures. You can learn more about this movement at Bird Names for Birds. While the debate continues, some species still bear the names of remarkable women -- naturalists, illustrators, and explorers -- who made significant contributions to science. In honor of Women’s History Month, here’s a look at some birds named after female pioneers. 

Koepcke’s Hermit 

This species of hummingbird is named after Maria Koepcke, a German ornithologist who made significant contributions to the study of Peruvian birds. She documented many species during her time working in Peru, including at least three new Peruvian endemic bird species (White-cheeked Cotinga; Russet-bellied Spinetail; and the Cactus Canastero) before her tragic death in a plane crash at 47. Three other bird species are named after Maria Koepcke: Koepcke's Screech-Owl, Koepcke's Caique; and the Sira Currassow (Pauxi koepckeae).

Blackburnian Warbler 

Named after Anna Blackburne, an English naturalist and botanist in the 18th century, the Blackburnian Warbler is known for its brilliant orange throat and contrasting black-and-white markings. Blackburne was an avid collector of plants and animals, contributing significantly to natural history. A species of scarab beetle and a Pacific islands flowering plant were also named after Blackburne. 

Gouldian Finch 

The Gouldian Finch, a vividly colored Australian species, was named in honor of Elizabeth Gould, a 19th-century artist and illustrator. She was the wife of ornithologist John Gould and played a crucial role in illustrating his bird books, including The Birds of Australia, and other ornithological tomes. Despite her significant contributions, she often went uncredited during her lifetime. Mrs. Gould's Sunbird is also named after Elizabeth Gould.

Lady Amherst’s Pheasant 

This strikingly patterned pheasant, native to China and Myanmar, was named after Sarah Amherst, an English naturalist and botanist. She was instrumental in collecting and documenting bird species from Asia, sending many specimens back to Europe for study. Lady Amherst’s Pheasant, with its striking long tail and metallic plumage, remains one of the most visually spectacular birds.

Anna’s Hummingbird 

This dazzling hummingbird, with its iridescent pink and green plumage, was named after Anna Masséna, Duchess of Rivoli. She was a 19th-century French noblewoman and an avid bird enthusiast. The species was described by René Primevère Lesson, a French naturalist who named it in her honor. Found along the western coast of North America, Anna’s Hummingbird is known for its spectacular aerial displays.

Lulu's Tody-Flycatcher

This small flycatcher species, endemic to Peru, was first discovered by science in 1970, and described as late as the early 1980s. Ornithologists Ned Johnson and Robert Jones gave the new species the name Lulu's Tody-Flycatcher to honor philanthropist Lulu May Von Hagen for her support of avian genetics and research. The bird is also known as Johnson's Tody-Tyrant.

Grace's Warbler

This warbler was named after Grace Darling Coues, the sister of American ornithologist Elliott Coues. The species was described by Spencer Fullerton Baird; Elliott was the finder and requested the name to honor his sister. Despite having a bird named in her honor, little is recorded about Grace Coues herself, highlighting how many women honored in bird names remain historically under-recognized. The following species were also named after women who did not have a direct recorded involvement in ornithology or natural studies.

Adélie Penguin

This well-studied species of penguin was named after Adèle Dumont d'Urville, the wife of French explorer Jules Dumont d’Urville. In 1840, during an Antarctic expedition, d’Urville named both the Adelie Penguin and the Adélie Land (a region of Antarctica) in her honor. These charismatic black-and-white penguins are known for their incredible endurance in the harsh Antarctic environment. They rely on sea ice for survival, feeding primarily on krill and forming large, noisy colonies during the breeding season. While Adélaïde herself was not an explorer, her name is forever tied to one of Antarctica’s most iconic birds.

Virginia's Warbler

This small, gray-and-yellow warbler was named in honor of Virginia Anderson, the wife of Army surgeon and naturalist Dr. William Anderson. Ornithologist Spencer Fullerton Baird described the species in 1858 and honored the wishes of William, as the finder, to name the bird after his wife. 

Adelaide’s Warbler 

This bright yellow warbler, endemic to Puerto Rico, was named after Maria Antoinette Adelaide Florentia del Carmen Swift Washburne, the daughter of ornithologist Robert Swift. While little is known about Adelaide’s own contributions to ornithology, the warbler carries her name, making her one of the few women honored in bird nomenclature. Her father was the first to describe the species. Keen blog readers should know that this bird will be added to Birdorable very soon -- stay tuned!

Some other birds named after women under similar circumstances include Johanna's Sunbird (Johanna Verreaux, wife of naturalist Édouard Verreaux); Thekla's Lark (Thekla Brehm, deceased sister of zoologist Alfred Edmund Brehm); Letitia's Thorntail (Letizia del Gallo Roccagiovine, granddaughter of ornithologist Charles Bonaparte); Lina's Sunbird (Lina Rabor, wife of ornithologist Dioscoro S. Rabor); Winifred's Warbler (Winifred Muriel Moreau, wife of ornithologist Reginald Moreau); Mrs. Hume's Pheasant (Mary Ann Grindall Hume, wife of naturalist Allan Octavian Hume); Rachel's Malimbe (Rachel Cassin Davis, daughter of ornithologist John Cassin); and Lucy's Warbler (Lucy Hunter Baird, daughter of ornithologist Spencer Fullerton Baird). You can read more about these and other birds named after women here.

Historically, many birds were named after male explorers and scientists, despite the fact that many women played a crucial role in ornithology and conservation. While efforts are being made to rename some species to reflect more inclusive histories, for today these bird names remain as a reminder of the contributions of women in the field.

As winter storms still rage across parts of the United States, birds are preparing to move north for spring migration. As temperatures finally warm up, we wonder about how our feathered friends spent the cold, harsh winter months.  When temperatures drop and food becomes scarce, animals have different ways to survive. Some go into hibernation, while others enter a state called torpor. Though they might seem similar, there are key differences between the two. Birds don’t hibernate in the way that mammals like bears do, but many species experience torpor to get through cold nights or periods of food scarcity.

Torpor is a short-term, reversible state of reduced metabolic activity. During torpor, a bird’s body temperature, heart rate, and breathing rate drop significantly, allowing it to conserve energy. This state usually lasts for a few hours, or overnight, helping birds survive cold nights or food shortages. Because torpor is temporary, birds can wake up and become active relatively quickly when needed.

Hibernation, on the other hand, is a prolonged state of dormancy lasting for an extended period, often weeks or months. In hibernation, metabolism slows even more drastically than in torpor, and the animal remains in a low-energy state for an extended time. Many mammals, such as bears, bats, and ground squirrels, hibernate to survive winter conditions. 

Many species rely on torpor to get through difficult conditions. Hummingbirds are among the best-known examples. These tiny birds have incredibly high metabolisms and need to consume a lot of food to maintain their energy levels. When temperatures drop at night, and food is unavailable, hummingbirds may enter torpor to conserve energy. Their body temperature can drop dramatically, sometimes by nearly 50 degrees Fahrenheit, allowing them to survive until morning when they can start feeding again. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are also thought to use torpor as a strategy to conserve energy for future migration, as a way to save up fat stores for the long journey ahead.

Other birds that use torpor include nightjars, swifts, and chickadees. Black-capped Chickadees, for example, enter torpor on especially cold nights, lowering their body temperature by about 20 degrees to reduce energy loss. This ability helps them survive harsh winter conditions in northern climates. 

One of the most persistent bird myths involves swallows and hibernation. For centuries, people believed that swallows spent the winter hibernating underwater! This idea dates back to ancient times when early observers noticed that swallows disappeared during the colder months and assumed they buried themselves in mud beneath lakes and rivers until spring. Some even claimed to have seen swallows emerging from the water when the weather warmed.

In reality, like many species, swallows migrate to warmer climates instead of hibernating. Barn Swallows, for example, travel thousands of miles from North America to Central and South America (or from Europe to Africa -- these birds are fairly cosmopolitan). The myth of swallows hibernating underwater has long been debunked, but it remains a fascinating example of how people once tried to explain mysterious bird behavior before the science of migration was well understood.

Torpor is a crucial survival strategy for many birds, allowing them to conserve energy during cold nights or periods of food scarcity. It may also be used to save up energy for future use, even when weather conditions are mild.  Torpor provides a temporary solution that helps species like hummingbirds, chickadees, and nightjars endure harsh conditions.  Whether by entering torpor or flying thousands of miles to warmer climates, birds have developed remarkable adaptations to make it through challenging seasons.

The Double-crested Cormorant is a fascinating waterbird found across North America. With its long neck, hooked bill, and striking turquoise eyes, this bird is both elegant and efficient. It gets its name from the two small tufts, or "crests," of feathers that appear on adult birds during the breeding season. These crests are typically black but appear as white crests in Alaskan birds, like our cartoon individual. The crests can be subtle and black ones can be hard to see at a distance.

This species is a skilled diver, relying on its webbed feet to propel itself underwater in search of fish. Unlike many other waterbirds, the Double-crested Cormorant does not have fully waterproof feathers (they produce less effective preen oil). This may seem like a disadvantage, but it actually helps the bird dive deeper and stay submerged for longer periods. However, after a fishing session, the cormorant must perch with its wings spread wide to dry in the sun—a characteristic pose that makes them easy to recognize.

Double-crested Cormorants are social birds, often found in groups on lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. They nest in colonies, sometimes with hundreds of pairs sharing the same site. Their nests, made of sticks and lined with softer materials, are built in trees, on the ground, or even on artificial structures like channel markers. During breeding season, the adult birds develop bright orange-yellow facial skin, adding to their striking appearance.

Though they were once threatened by pollution and habitat destruction, Double-crested Cormorants have made a strong comeback in recent decades. Their population declined sharply in the mid-20th century due to the effects of pesticides like DDT, which weakened eggshells and led to poor reproductive success. Conservation efforts and legal protections have helped their numbers rebound, and today, they are a common sight across much of their range.

Despite their success, these birds are sometimes viewed as a nuisance by fishermen, as they consume large amounts of fish. However, they play an important role in the ecosystem, helping to maintain balance in fish populations. Their unique adaptations and behaviors make them a fascinating species to observe in the wild.

Next time you’re near a body of water, keep an eye out for a dark, long-necked bird drying its wings in the sun—it just might be a Double-crested Cormorant!

This week we're shining a spotlight on one of our newest designs, featuring our European Robin. The European Robin Hood design is a playful blend of nature and folklore, combining the cute charm of the European Robin with the legendary Robin Hood. This adorable bird dons a classic bycocket hat, a medieval-style cap with a turned-up brim and a feather—an iconic look often associated with Robin Hood. The design captures both the whimsy of the natural world and the adventurous spirit of one of England's most famous folk heroes.

The European Robin is a beloved songbird found across the continent, recognized for its bright orange-red breast and friendly nature. In folklore and tradition, it is often seen as a symbol of joy and good luck. This little bird has a bold personality, sometimes even approaching humans in gardens and woodlands. With its inquisitive nature and bright appearance, the European Robin is a perfect match for the legendary outlaw who roamed Sherwood Forest.

As an aside, did you know that the American Robin was named by European settlers who were reminded of the beloved European Robin, often called "Robin Redbreast," due to its similar shape and reddish-orange breast? Despite the resemblance, the two birds are not closely related. The European Robin belongs to the flycatcher family, while the American Robin is a member of the thrush family. The name "robin" stuck, even though the American Robin is larger and behaves more like a true thrush than its European namesake.

Robin Hood’s story has been told for centuries, evolving from medieval ballads to books, films, and TV shows. The folk hero is famous for standing up against injustice, stealing from the rich to help the poor, and outwitting the corrupt Sheriff of Nottingham. Along with his band of Merry Men, he became a symbol of resistance and fairness, inspiring countless adaptations and retellings. His signature bycocket hat, often made of felt or leather and featuring a feather, has become one of the most recognizable elements of his look, and makes our cartoon character instantly recognizable. 

Our European Robin Hood design is a fun and creative way to celebrate both birds and folklore. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast, a history buff, or a fan of Robin Hood’s legendary exploits, this adorable bird-as-folk-hero design is sure to bring a smile to your face. Available on a variety of products, including t-shirts, hoodies, pillows, and tote bags, it makes a great gift for anyone who loves birds or enjoys a good tale of heroism and adventure.

Embrace the spirit of the forest and add a little medieval flair to your bird-loving world with this delightful Birdorable creation!