Shows
Life List: A Birding PodcastHow to find rare birds with Jen BrumfieldThis episode is a blast—and full of stuff you'll want to remember! George and Alvaro interview the legendary birder of Cuyahoga County, Ohio, and beyond: Jen Brumfield. They dive into all it takes to be a rarity-finding machine, and then put their advice through a detailed walkthrough of jaeger identification. We always say it...this hour passed by too quickly. Come for the gales and gulls… stay for the unabashed joy of birding!Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon fo...
2025-07-271h 05Life List: A Birding PodcastBird chases, misses, and surprises...and what birders can't let go ofThis is what we do, folks! George and Alvaro are sharing the stories from the field and their yards, discussing scientific and hobbyist news in the birding world, and sharing travel tales. And karaoke dos and don'ts. And a skunk saga that seems to have included. Hang out with us for a spell!Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks...
2025-07-1251 minLife List: A Birding PodcastSvalbard dreams and birds you wait a lifetime forWe're all here—Mollee, George, and Alvaro—to catch up on birding and nature stories from home and Alvaro's adventures spanning oceans...and two Great White Norths! Yup, with our usual dose of wildlife weirdness, too. Highlights include:An incredible polar bear sighting alongside Ivory Gulls and (cue Alvaro's scream) Ross's GullsBirding in Svalbard, Norway, and FinlandPelagic reports from the Farallon IslandsSkunks, tomato juice, and what actually helps when your dog gets sprayedYard list joys and surprises—from mulberries to Least BitternsPlus, read about Cory's Least Bittern hereCome for the booby stakeouts and sku...
2025-07-0257 minLife List: A Birding PodcastAviList: the new Global Avian Checklist and its effects on bird taxonomy with Marshall Iliff and Frank RheindtYou like splits and lumps? Thinking about the intricacies of global taxonomy? Oh boy, are you in for a treat! George and Alvaro sat down with Marshall Iliff and Frank Rheindt, two members of the AviList Core Team, to take a deep dive into what’s just been released: AviList, the Global Avian Checklist! Learn how the process got started, what’s happened in the years it’s been in the making, and how decisions were made bird-by-bird. Plus, hear how the four existing global checklists—including IOC, eBird/Clements, and Birdlife—will align with Avilist (spo...
2025-06-141h 10Life List: A Birding PodcastWeird science and birding through life changesOur travels have recently taken us across Costa Rica, Cuba, Argentina, Chile, and Tanzania — so it's high time for a catch-up! In this episode, George, Alvaro, and Mollee swap stories from the field, from color-changing marlins to Galápagos rail rediscoveries to grizzly bear rewilding efforts.We also talk about how birds pick up dozens of local names (hello, timberdoodle!) and how birding stays with you even during major life changes. Yep, one of us is making an international move. Come for the octopus escapes and marlin flash mobs, stay for a conversation about how bird...
2025-05-0359 minLife List: A Birding PodcastGeographic clues to hybridization and the evolution of birding field guidesGeorge and Alvaro have an evening chat about the evolution of field guides with notable quirks in a few editions, Alvaro discusses how he used location-based evidence to theorize about gull hybridization, and more. Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to know more about us? Check out George's company, Hillstar Nature; A...
2025-04-0556 minLife List: A Birding PodcastBird conservation on the Chatham Islands and beyond with Mike BellGeorge and Alvaro took some time during their Subantarctic Islands cruise to chat with Mike Bell, ornithologist for the Chatham Islands Landscape Restoration Trust. Make sure to check out their website for more information on all the conservation work they're doing!Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want...
2025-03-2258 minLife List: A Birding PodcastBirding the world versus major sporting eventsWe're catching up on our tales around the world and wondering...how close does birding get to a major sporting event? Join us in our usual banter. The book that Alvaro thinks of is called Owls of the Eastern Ice: A Quest to Find and Save the World's Largest OwlHave you seen a Nocturnal Curassow?Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.c...
2025-03-1059 minLife List: A Birding PodcastDeclaring a species extinct and sampling the world's coolest birding eventsIt's our final episode...but only for this season, don't worry 😉We're chatting about birding festivals near and far, the multinational process of declaring a species extinct, and (literal) nightmares about birding tours.Don't miss out on: Alvaro's upcoming toursHillstar's newest tours and pelagics Tours and articles on Nighthawk All the great content on the Ladera Sur websiteAnd with that, we're off on our winter break from podcasting! Follow Life List on Facebook and Instagram, sign up for our newsletter, and we'll see yo...
2024-11-261h 03Life List: A Birding PodcastFall birding highlights (so far!)Alright, we're back! George and Alvaro talk about unusual sightings and behaviors they've seen so far this fall along with takeaways from afar from the AOS conference.If you haven't already, be sure to read The trials of John P. McCown by Steve Hampton. Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for s...
2024-10-151h 00Life List: A Birding PodcastComparing thermal scopes, Hurricane Helene effects, and the beauty in the unknowns on pelagicsWe're continuing conversations with our listeners on the air as we share updates from our home fronts. We have lots of links to share this week!Check out Ed Yong's account of his recent pelagic experience with Alvaro's Adventures in his newsletterWhile you're at it, make sure to read An Immense World by Ed YongWe get tons of questions about thermal scopes. This article by one of our listeners, Jonathan Ley, is a thorough comparison of brands and models. Here's a fresh Certificate of Appreciation from the USGS to George f...
2024-10-011h 05Life List: A Birding PodcastHow Alvaro's bar chat led to a new species of storm-petrelHere's a story with some drama, discovery, and mysteries yet unsolved! Hear all about the background of discovering the Andean Storm-Petrel (Oceanites barrosi), straight from the source! Here's the paper that was published: Resolving the conflictive phylogenetic relationships of Oceanites (Oceanitidae: Procellariiformes) with the description of a new speciesGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa...
2024-08-121h 09Life List: A Birding PodcastBehind the scenes of professional bird guiding and podcasting with Ken BehrensThis is a beers-after-hours-type conversation with Ken Behrens: author, bird and nature guide, and co-host of Naturally Adventurous Podcast. We chat about the ups and downs of summertime birding, travel, and food Ken misses from his old home in Madagascar.Please let us know: What do you think about the American Birding Association's Listing Areas and Regions? And you can learn more about Ken's tours, books, and media on his website. Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and
2024-08-0159 minLife List: A Birding PodcastExpression of genes, extreme lifespans in animals, and birding the Galapagos IslandsThis episode is classic Life List—full of facts and stories from our homes and the field. Check out this 79-year-old box turtle monitored in PA!Get digestible highlights of the AOS supplement in ABA's Checklist Redux 2024. Want more tiger sharks? Tooth and Claw podcast has a fascinating tiger shark episode. Read the paper: Oceanic seabirds chase tropical cyclonesGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your...
2024-07-221h 10Life List: A Birding PodcastBehind the scenes of Alaskan birding toursA trip to Alaska in the summer for rare and vagrant birds is exhilarating...and a logistical feat! George and Alvaro recap their June Alaskan travels from their point of view as guides and share the magic they found along the way.Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to know more...
2024-07-151h 08Life List: A Birding PodcastIntersections of science, art, and passion in birding with Melissa HaftingMelissa does it all, and today, we're chatting about it! Check out Melissa's links:Dare to Bird by Melissa HaftingMelissa's blogBC Rare Bird AlertBC Young BirdersRare Bird Alert documentary Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to...
2024-07-0856 minLife List: A Birding PodcastIt’s taxonomy season! Previewing splits and lumpsWe're back to catch up on news in the birding world and our latest stories. Here are a few links we reference in this episode: Diving into Cockney Rhyming Slang is totally worth your timeHere's a beautiful tribute from Birds Caribbean about Orlando GarridoKeep an eye on our socials for links to taxonomy updates as we get them!Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic i...
2024-07-011h 08Life List: A Birding PodcastTribute to Tom Johnson, a remarkable bird expert and humanIn our season finale, we pay tribute to Tom Johnson, a distinguished bird expert and an exceptional human being, who passed away unexpectedly in 2023. Tom was a guiding light in the birding community, known for his profound knowledge, infectious enthusiasm, and unwavering dedication to bird conservation and science. This episode features an interview with Tom, recorded shortly before his passing.Listen to the American Birding Association's podcast tribute to Tom here. Learn more about Tom's impact on the birding community here and here in these two remembrance articles. Imagine yourself birding with To...
2024-06-031h 21Life List: A Birding PodcastPatterns in Vagrant Birds, Hummingbird Splits, and TractorsWe've got lots to chit-chat about this week—birds, butterflies, land, and more!We talk about Harvesters—learn about these butterflies here and their diets here. Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to know more about us? Check out George's company, Hillst...
2024-05-291h 02Life List: A Birding PodcastA deep dive on oceanic birds and wildlife with Kate SutherlandKate is a marine biologist and pelagic expert who has stories and facts to fill a whole voyage. Join us as we delve into the mesmerizing world of pelagic birds and wildlife, uncovering the secrets of the high seas! Check out Seabirding Pelagics with Kate when you're ready for an offshore adventure. Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com
2024-05-211h 08Life List: A Birding PodcastWhat it's like to go birding in CubaA few weeks ago we sat down to chat about Cuba, earthquakes, and eclipses. We always stay busy!We mention birding in Bhutan; if you want to know more about what it's like, check out this episode from season two. Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to k...
2024-05-141h 03Life List: A Birding PodcastWhy we can’t put down Kenn Kaufman’s newest bookThe Birds and Audubon Missed comes out this week. Listen as George and Alvaro reminisce and muse the worlds of ornithology and birding with Kenn—perhaps as you enjoy spring migration in your neck of the woods!Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to know more about us? Check out George's co...
2024-05-061h 04Life List: A Birding PodcastBirding the Darien Gap with Adam WalleynAdam has birded the places people dream of all around the world, and recently returned from his most recent adventures in the primary forests of the Darien Gap. We're chatting birds, mammals, herps, and more!Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to know more about us? Check out George's company, Hillstar N...
2024-04-2946 minLife List: A Birding PodcastTravelogue: Scouting Mammals and Birds in Northern IndiaGeorge is sharing a behind-the-scenes look at his scouting trip in northern India from January 2024. Want to hear the rest of the story? Check us out on Patreon! Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to know more about us? Check out George's company, Hillstar Nature; Alvaro's company, Alvaro's Adventures, a...
2024-04-2530 minLife List: A Birding PodcastLet's Discuss ABA Checklist and Avian Tree of Life UpdatesThere's been some exciting news in the birding world, and we have thoughts — and some inside scoop! Today, we're talking about ABA Checklist updates and major discoveries in bird evaluation and taxonomy. Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to know more about us? Check out George's company, Hil...
2024-04-171h 06Life List: A Birding PodcastUnderstanding red crossbill types and other finches with Matt YoungThe finch guru is with us today! We're talking speciation, food source specialization, mimicry, and more. Yep, this episode is meaty. Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to know more about us? Check out George's company, Hillstar Nature; Alvaro's company, Alvaro's Adventures, and Mollee's company, Nighthawk Agency, to see more about w...
2024-04-101h 12Life List: A Birding PodcastGeorge joins the American Birding Association Board of Directors!We're chit-chatting about ABA, natural disasters on birding tours, and other news from our backyards. Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to know more about us? Check out George's company, Hillstar Nature; Alvaro's company, Alvaro's Adventures, and Mollee's company, Nighthawk Agency, to see more about what we're up to.
2024-04-0151 minLife List: A Birding PodcastEarly Spring Birding: Michigan's Upper Peninsula and CubaIn North America, winter lingers up north while migration and breeding season rev up in the south. Today, we're chatting about recent stories from the field and a few from the archives. Check out lekking Sharp-tailed Grouse here.Check out Cuba: An American History here. Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com.
2024-03-2752 minLife List: A Birding PodcastBirding Down Under: The Spectacular Subantarctic IslandsWe want you to hear just how cool and fascinating the Subantarctic Islands islands are. Join us there in December? [Learn more here.]Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to know more about us? Check out George's company, Hillstar Nature; Alvaro's company, Alvaro's Adventures...
2024-03-181h 06Life List: A Birding PodcastExpression of supergenes in birdsAlvaro is here today with a deep dive on supergenes and their phenotypic expressions in birds. Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to know more about us? Check out George's company, Hillstar Nature; Alvaro's company, Alvaro's Adventures, and Mollee's company, Nighthawk Agency, to see more about what we're up t...
2024-03-1146 minLife List: A Birding PodcastHarpy Eagles and Backyard Companions with Holly MerkerA plea from your producer: Any tips on dealing with paper wasps?! But really, I've got it under control, I think...Holly returns to the podcast this week as we catch up on Neotropic birding and more.Read about Mollee's full Harpy Eagle experience here.Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa...
2024-03-051h 02Life List: A Birding PodcastWhat's coming up on Life ListGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to know more about us? Check out George's company, Hillstar Nature; Alvaro's company, Alvaro's Adventures, and Mollee's company, Nighthawk Agency, to see more about what we're up to.
2024-03-0401 minLife List: A Birding PodcastLumps, Splits, and StringersHey, hey. The American Ornithological Society has announced the 2024 proposals affecting taxonomy and species. Here's what we think about them!And have you heard about the drama around an individual seeing 10,000 bird species for the first time? Congrats, Peter Kaestner! Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! W...
2024-02-281h 12Life List: A Birding PodcastThe ups and downs of birding in IndiaWe have lots to share this time! Subscribe to our shiny newsletter Find us on PatreonCheck out these least bittern x-rays And visit our tour websites to join us in the field!Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comThanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast!Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us...
2024-02-071h 14Life List: A Birding PodcastConquering ticks (the icky ones) and tales from UgandaGeorge interviews friends Andrea and Josh about gorillas, tick-borne diseases and prevention, and bird and wildlife photography. More from Andrea and Josh: About the American Lyme Disease FoundationThe Unbiased Science PodcastCheck out Josh's photographyTalk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comThanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast!Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to...
2024-01-231h 31Life List: A Birding PodcastBirdy questions answered: Communicating about rare birdsWe're chatting about New Year birding, winter sea watching and pelagics, and the evolution of communication platforms for birders. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comThanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast!Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! W...
2024-01-121h 12Life List: A Birding PodcastPatterns in winter vagrant birds and Christmas Bird CountsWe're back for season four, and we have lots to catch up on! Join us as we chat about recent travels, Christmas Bird Counts, and other exciting winter birding.Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comThanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast!Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com.
2024-01-041h 04Life List: A Birding PodcastBehind the scenes of working at Cape May Bird ObservatoryGeorge is bringing you a set of interviews with part of the fall crew at Cape May Bird Observatory. Enjoy these glimpses into life at the counting sites with Martina Nordstrand, Gautam Apte, and Aidan Place!Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comThanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast!Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at
2023-11-2059 minLife List: A Birding PodcastChanging bird names: Deep diving the AOS decision process with AlvaroHave you heard the news? We get the inside scoop on the American Ornithological Society's decision to change all English bird names currently named after people within its geographic jurisdiction. We reference the AOS's decision and documentation and Reflections of a Native birder: The one Indian killer bird name I really have trouble with by Stephen Carr Hampton in this episode. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comThanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast!Get more...
2023-11-081h 16Life List: A Birding PodcastFall Birding and Changing NamesWe recorded this episode just before the American Ornithological Society announced plans to change bird species named after people, but it was already on our minds. Join us as we discuss fall birding on both sides of the US, bird club name changes, pawpaw trees, and more. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comThanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast!Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for b...
2023-11-021h 15Life List: A Birding PodcastThe weirdest things we've seen while birdingOur gang catches up on early fall birding and herping before sharing some of our stories from the field about crazy non-bird sightings that have left us wondering...AKA, s**t birders see.Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comThanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast!Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast...
2023-10-251h 18Life List: A Birding PodcastEmbracing birding's mental health benefits with Holly MerkerAre birds magical? We explore that question, hawk watches, and the joys of being an eBird reviewer with Holly Merker.Learn about the Frontiers and Ornithology Symposium here!Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comThanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast!Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com.
2023-10-171h 13Life List: A Birding PodcastThe art of finding birds virtually with Greg NeiseGreg Neise joins us this week to chat about all things virtual and Fantasy Birding!Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast!Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to know more...
2023-10-101h 11Life List: A Birding PodcastEuropean and urban birding with David LindoDavid Lindo, the Urban Birder himself, joins us to talk about his love of birding and how the U.S. birding culture compares to Europe's. Learn more about urban birding on David's website.Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com.
2023-10-0257 minLife List: A Birding PodcastThe things that happen while doing bird researchThis is a meaty one! George and Alvaro chat about the causes of high fall migration counts, caged birds, snapping turtles, cardinals, South American birding, and so much more. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast...
2023-09-251h 02Life List: A Birding PodcastLevel up your bird photography with Glenn BartleyGlenn joins us to talk all things bird photography—including tips on what to do before and after you get the shot!Helpful linksGlenn’s site eBook—Post Processing: A Guide for Nature Photographers Book—Hummingbirds: A Celebration of Nature's JewelsBreeze Browser Fast Raw Viewer Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic i...
2023-09-181h 18Life List: A Birding PodcastHerps, Gulls, and FlamingosFlamingos or flamingoes? Either way, they're around. We catch up on some great rare birds and other excursions.Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to know more about us? Check out George's c...
2023-09-111h 00Life List: A Birding PodcastBirding in the Southwest, Empidonax flycatcher identification, and pizza toppingsWe catch up on our late summer birding adventures, a range of birding resources, and pineapple on pizza.Helpful links:InfiRay T2 Pro Thermal Monocular Pulsar Axion XM30FField Guide to North American Flycatchers: Empidonax and PeweesTalk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com.
2023-09-0457 minLife List: A Birding PodcastHappiness by way of birds and a bicycle with Dorian AndersonDorian Anderson joins us to chat about photography, tales from the road, and how a unique big year helped him find himself. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to know more about us? Check...
2023-08-291h 09Life List: A Birding PodcastIs El Niño the cause of these pelagic sightings?George and Alvaro catch up on good band names, rare birds found while not primarily birding, and the possible causes of some interesting wildlife sightings on the West Coast.Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast...
2023-08-261h 04Life List: A Birding PodcastHawkwatches, rare birds, and karaoke with Jeff BoutonWe're starting this episode with a brief tribute to our friend, Tom Johnson, who unexpectedly passed in July 2023. Then we catch up with our pal Jeff Bouton of Kowa Optics, sharing stories old and new.Check out all of Kowa's great products at https://www.kowaoptic.com/. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to u...
2023-08-1855 minLife List: A Birding PodcastThe best birds are vultures, obviously! Chat with Katie FallonGeorge and Mollee chat with Katie about some of the greatest birds there are: vultures! Plus Cerulean Warblers, wildlife rehabilitation, state-level elections, and more. Catch Katie and her projects:Avian Conservation Center of AppalachiaVULTURE: The Private Life of an Unloved BirdCerulean BluesTalk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us a...
2023-08-0851 minLife List: A Birding PodcastTake a deep dive on golden eagles with Trish MillerThere's so much to uncover about golden eagles, and Trish Miller is on it! Hear about the data that's being collected and what it's revealing about these magnificent raptors. And Alvaro wants to know…in what could be one of the biggest misidentifications of all time, are you team caracara or team golden eagle? Learn more about Conservation Science Global and Cellular Tracking Technologies. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life lis...
2023-07-171h 00Life List: A Birding PodcastSpecies lumps and splits: Discussing AOS checklist updatesThe AOS checklist updates are out, and we're here for it! Catch up on what species were split, lumped, and what proposals did not get accepted. Book recommendation: Check out American Serengeti: The Last Big Animals of the Great Plains Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at
2023-07-101h 05Life List: A Birding PodcastCan you prove extinction? And stories from recent birding travelsWe're back for season three! George and Alvaro catch up on birding near home, recent trips across the prairies and Rockies of the U.S. and the Galapagos Islands, and our upcoming Spectacular Subantarctic Islands tour. Plus, we just can't let the Ivory-billed Woodpecker news go...Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at
2023-07-031h 03Life List: A Birding PodcastMore of your birdy questions answered and 2023 highlights (so far!)Well, there's bad news and good news. The bad news is that this is our mid-year wrap-up...that's right, we're taking a break through June. But the good news is we'll be out with even more episodes starting in July!Join us as we talk about birds and our other favorite topics — cats, food, beer — and answer some fan mail from folks like you.Until July, follow along with us on Instagram and Facebook!Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more L...
2023-05-3048 minLife List: A Birding PodcastThe joys of birding in BhutanPlus Florida and spring birding fun. It’s a classic chat from the Life List trio. Consider a donation to In Color Birding Club and check out Frontiers in Ornithology!Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to...
2023-05-161h 09Life List: A Birding PodcastLesser-known birding spots in the world's birdiest country with Chris BellWe're wrapping up our series of podcasts from Colombia with an interview with Chris Bell, co-host of The Birders Show and avid country lister in Colombia. After chatting about some of Colombia's most famous birding hotspots, Chris chats about pelagics, the trapezoid-shaped slice of the Amazon in the southeast corner, and across the border in Venezuela. Plus, get some new book recommendations!Check out our friends at The Birders Show!Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com Get more Life list by
2023-05-0135 minLife List: A Birding PodcastBirding and big cats in Tanzania, Bhutan preview, and Caribbean vagrantsThe episode title says it all in our classic catch-up episode style. Plus, George and Alvaro shoot the breeze with spring migration in their neighborhoods, some love for parrots around the world and a discussion on a certain vagrant spoonbill in Florida.Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com
2023-04-171h 09Life List: A Birding PodcastJennifer Ackerman on owl intelligence, her writing process, and spirit birdsOur series of episodes recorded in Colombia continues! We interviewed Jennifer Ackerman, renowned author of The Genius of Birds and The Bird Way, on her upcoming book and more. Thanks to Chris Bell of the Birders Show for joining us as well! Check out our friends: Jennifer AckermanThe Birders ShowTalk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us an...
2023-04-0431 minLife List: A Birding PodcastNate Swick and Chris Bell with us in Colombia!We're so excited to share this special episode we recorded during the Colombia Birdfair with Nate Swick of the American Birding Podcast and Chris Bell of The Birders Show. Get a taste of Cali in this episode!Check out our friends: American Birding PodcastThe Birders ShowTalk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic i...
2023-03-2054 minLife List: A Birding PodcastEscapees on eBird and in Central Park...oh myWe're worked up. We're stirring the pot. Catch up with the Life List crew! Species mentioned: Northern Bobwhite, Eurasian Eagle-OwlTalk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to know more about...
2023-03-061h 05Life List: A Birding PodcastSpecies or subspecies? Plus birders we hope to meet and new places to go in 2023We're catching up with this episode—recorded in early January—on new year resolutions, new and old places we plan to visit, and recap our recent travels. Highlight bird species: House Wren, Gundlach's HawkLocations mentioned: Japan; Cozumel, Mexico; Costa Rica; Colombia Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and s...
2023-02-081h 06Life List: A Birding PodcastThe secret sauce of Antarctic birding cruises: South GeorgiaIs there such thing as too many penguins? Find out as we wrap up our Antarctica tales in this episode we recorded in early December—hence the World Cup and holiday references! Hear Alvaro's zodiac debacle. Plus we chat about local birding, a dovekie "invasion," and a Cozumel birding preview. Send us: Your bird poop stories. Plus, what should we name George’s beer? Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and
2023-01-171h 01Life List: A Birding PodcastPhenomenal birding in AntarcticaGeorge and Alvaro discuss what life is like aboard a ship in Antarctica, polar plunges, krill, and the world's biggest iceberg, plus spectacular birding all along the way. But the real question is: Can a ship full of birders find Emperor Penguins?Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com.
2023-01-0359 minLife List: A Birding PodcastWhat birding the Falkland Islands is likeHey, we're back! George and Alvaro recorded a few episodes while on an epic Antarctic adventure, and this is the first of these installments. They chat about birding in Tierra del Fuego, exploring Argentinean culture and food, what it's like on their ship, and Falkland Island adventures.One spot left to join George and Mollee in Colombia in February!Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and ...
2022-12-221h 04Life List: A Birding PodcastDoes that bird count on your life list?We chat about fishers, Phillies, and debate life list nuances. Let us know who you agree with!One spot left to join George and Mollee in Colombia in February!Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics...
2022-11-1459 minLife List: A Birding PodcastWhat's it like birding throughout Colombia?George and Mollee chat about one of our favorite countries and deep-dive questions about our February Life List: Colombia tour. Join George and Mollee in Colombia in February!Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for...
2022-11-0250 minLife List: A Birding PodcastExtraordinary birding experiencesSkua! Kirtland's Warbler! Hear some recent extraordinary tales from the field from George and Alvaro. Plus, join George and Mollee in Colombia or Alvaro in Japan in February! Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com.
2022-10-191h 11Life List: A Birding PodcastStorm birding: A science and an artGeorge and Alvaro give the lowdown on storm birding in this episode. They also chat about some unidentifiable birds and the subjectivity of determining genera.If you follow George on social media, you’ll know that this episode was recorded before he had an incredible fall find in Cape May. Stay tuned for the next episode!Plus, join us in Colombia in February! »Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our new...
2022-10-051h 00Life List: A Birding PodcastWe're answering birdy questions from our listeners!This week, we're answering questions from you, our dear listeners! Hear travel and birding tips and if the American Woodcock is indeed the best bird. Plus, join us in Colombia in February! »Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks t...
2022-09-191h 13Life List: A Birding PodcastWhat leads to bird species lumps and splits? A lively discussion on checklist updatesThis is what our podcast is about, folks: George and Alvaro take a deep dive into the American Ornithological Society's most recent supplement to the North and Middle American Checklist to discuss all the good, the bad, and what goes into the decision process. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.comPlus, we have a lot coming up! Learn more about these upcoming trips: Life List in Colombia The Birding Co-op in Costa Rica Alvaro’s Adventures in Bolivia Hillstar Nature in Maine and Montan...
2022-09-051h 12Life List: A Birding PodcastBirding Arizona, South Africa, and ColombiaWe've all been on the road...er, plane, boat, and trail! Hear about our team's recent birding adventures across three continents. We talk about a lot of birds in this episode: Ferruginous Pygmy Owl Elf Owl Spectacled Petrel Ocellated Tapaculo Various Antpittas And honorable mention: pangolin!Plus, we have a lot coming up! Learn more about these upcoming trips: Life List in Colombia The Birding Co-op in Costa Rica Alvaro’s Adventures in Bolivia Hillstar Nature in Maine and Montana Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com
2022-08-2358 minLife List: A Birding PodcastHow backyard birding becomes an obsession with Julie ZickefooseRenowned naturalist, artist, and author Julie Zickefoose joins us in this episode to talk about the joys of birding her patch, the new BWD magazine, and dogs + skunks 101.All the links:Subscribe to BWD magazineCheck out Julie's blogLevel up your bird bathBig news: We're headed to Colombia in February! Sign up for the Coffee Triangle & The Colombia Birdfair Tour on our site. And while you're at it, look at our shiny new website!
2022-08-081h 05Life List: A Birding PodcastMonarchs demystified and how birding helps the brainDid you hear that Monarch Butterflies have recently become listed as endangered? Get the scoop from monarch scientists on how their population is changing, and while we're at it, how about some Ivory-billed Woodpecker updates, too? Plus hear the latest that proves how birding helps our memories!Deep Dive: Opposing global change drivers counterbalance trends in breeding North American monarch butterfliesBig news: We're headed to Colombia in February! Sign up for the Coffee Triangle & The Colombia Birdfair Tour on our site. And while you're...
2022-07-261h 06Life List: A Birding PodcastSplitting hares in Alaska and more summer birding travelGeorge and Alvaro catch up on their summer travels and deep dive Alaska’s birds and mammals. We get hungry at the end, and you may, too. Send your topic ideas to lifelistpodcast@gmail.comPS. Watch out for shell people! *send your letters to George*Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com.
2022-07-111h 04Life List: A Birding PodcastThe evolution of birding in Colombia with Diego CalderonThis episode we're joined by Diego Calderon, biologist and co-host of The Birders Show, to discuss all things birds and birding in Colombia and beyond!Topics discussed: Species discovery including the Antioquia Wren, ground rollers, ornithology and recreational birding in the Neotropics, birding with FARC, vagrancy and rare bird chasing, and the Morro Bay Winter Bird FestivalSend your topic ideas to lifelistpodcast@gmail.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon...
2022-06-271h 20Life List: A Birding PodcastDeep Diving Vagrant Birds with Marshall IliffMarshall Iliff joins us for this interview episode where we discuss big days, vagrancies, and more!Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to know more about us? Check out George's company, Hillstar Nature; Alvaro's company, Alvaro's Adventures, and Mollee's company, Nighthawk Agency, to see more about what we're up to.
2022-06-071h 29Life List: A Birding PodcastSpring Migration: Canada vs. US and East vs. WestCovid hit the pod, but didn't keep us down for long. We're back to catch up on spring migration, The Biggest Week in Birding Festival, west coast pelagic research, and a curious towhee behavior. Species mentioned: Arctic terns, various warblers, Eastern TowheeCheck out: BirdCastBirding Your Best LifeKowa ScopesSend your topic ideas to lifelistpodcast@gmail.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining ou...
2022-05-211h 04Life List: A Birding PodcastWas the Ivory-billed Woodpecker actually rediscovered?It's all over the news, but is there concrete evidence that the Ivory-billed Woodpecker still exists in the United States? George and Alvaro discuss these magnificent woodpeckers along with updates from Alvaro's tour in Cuba. Locations mentioned: CubaBook recommendation: Vagrancy in Birds by Alexander Lees and James GilroyUpcoming tours: New Jersey Deep Water Pelagic with Hillstar NatureSouth Africa Birds and Wine with Alvaro's AdventuresSend your topic ideas to li...
2022-04-261h 07Life List: A Birding PodcastFrom Snow Leopards to Volcano ViewsGeorge recounts his adventures in India, Mollee talks about visiting El Salvador, and Alvaro gets a rare bird in his yard while we're recording! Locations mentioned: India, El Salvador, Costa RicaMovie recommendation: 14 Peaks: Nothing Is ImpossibleSend your topic ideas to lifelistpodcast@gmail.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com
2022-04-111h 05Life List: A Birding PodcastWhat travel is like in 5 Central and South American countries right nowWhile George is away in India, Alvaro and Mollee are off on adventures of their own! Highlight bird species: Northern Mockingbird, various New World warblers, Black Swift, Broad-winged Hawk Locations mentioned: Chile, Argentina, El Salvador, Costa Rica, CubaDon’t miss out: on the Broad-winged Hawk Project and Moonlight drives nocturnal vertical flight dynamics in black swifts by Anders Hedenström, Robert A. Sparks, Gabriel Norevik, Colin Woolley, Greg J. Levandoski, and Susanne Åkesson.Send your topi...
2022-03-281h 07Life List: A Birding PodcastDiscovering a new bird species: Interview with Dan LaneEpisode 18 is a special one: our first interview with ornithologist, guide, and artist Dan Lane!Ever wondered what it's like to discover a new bird species...and what to do after discovering it? You won't want to miss this interview where Dan recounts the epic 20-year journey in the discovery of the Inti Tanager. Cool links: Learn more about Dan on his websiteSend your topic ideas to lifelistpodcast@gmail.comGet more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter
2022-03-141h 25Life List: A Birding PodcastBird Mysteries!We start by, what else? comparing pelagic updates from the east and west coasts with a few European bird names thrown in. Did we watch the Super Bowl? Superb owl? Tune in to find out. Measure Alvaro's junk food identification skills before we dive into some *drumroll* bird mysteries our hosts have experienced!Species mentioned: Egyptian Plover; Vermilion Flycatcher; Brujo Flycatcher; and you know, various alcids and gulls and raptorsCool links: Check out this awesome drone footage of Hillstar Nature’s recent pelagicAnd see a sample trip report on eBi...
2022-02-281h 03Life List: A Birding PodcastPlay dead, see condors“In any other scenario, this would be a wickedly, inappropriate, ridiculous idea… but we’re birders.”Thus begins many a birding tale, eh? In this case, we're talking condors. George and Alvaro dive into what makes a rare bird special, subspecies specifics, wild versus released or escaped birds, and more. Highlight bird species: Condors; Steller's Sea Eagle and other Steller species; Tundra Swan; Southern Lapwing; and various other subspeciesHighlight locations: Middle Creek WMA, PA; Hawaii; Cuba; Thailand; ColombiaDon’t miss out: Birding Your Best Life...
2022-02-141h 06Life List: A Birding PodcastTravel: Uganda! A deep dive on our adventureTalk about an epic birding adventure! George and Mollee recount their recent travels in Uganda. We deep dive into the things we didn’t expect and what we still can’t stop thinking about. Highlight bird species: Shoebill; a variety of weavers; African Finfoot; Rock Pratincole; plus many mammalsSpecial thanks: To Hannah and Erik of Hannah and Erik Go Birding podcast and Peter Burke of Alvaro's Adventures for their guest appearancesDon’t miss out: Frontiers in Ornithology Symposium; African Birding Expo; Bird Uganda Safaris; International Women...
2022-01-311h 12Life List: A Birding PodcastThe ecological findings of yard listingFind out what we almost named Life List and a deep dive into the cultural implications of the question: “Have you seen the eagle?” Then, here’s to a new yard list for George! The guys also discuss elitism in birding... did Ontario Field Ornithologists come up with a solution to the age-old birder paradigm of sharing rare bird sightings? Learn how Goosanders in Europe have the same plumage pattern but a totally different structural shape than Common Mergansers.Warning: We also discuss an unfortunately tasty group of rodents in South America including Shakira the pet Ca...
2022-01-171h 02Life List: A Birding PodcastLotta duck talk todayWe kick off 2022 with winter duck updates in the form of some mallard-esque species, including Black, Mottled, and Mexican Ducks. We chat about Saw-whets and other owls, plus how the public interacts with them. Plus, have you heard about the collaboration of leading conservation organizations to support expeditions to re-find 10 lost bird species? Leonardo DeCaprio has. We also pay homage to the leaders in the field and fine human beings we lost over the past few weeks. Highlight bird species: Various ducks; Dovekie; Great Skua; Saw-whet OwlsLocations mentioned: Cuba, New J...
2022-01-031h 01Life List: A Birding PodcastYou better love whales and owlsWe catch up on Christmas Bird Counts, some Swifty talk, landfill birding, and how with experience, identification becomes recognition, just like finding a good friend in a crowded room. George also recounts the American Birding Association's Bird of the Year Reveal Party — welcome, year of the Burrowing Owl! — and more on owls, including vocal evidence to separate the burrowing owl into species and how owls decorate their nests. And a Steller’s Ja-- no wait, Eagle! continues to make dramatic appearances around the continent, spurring George and Al to recount their experiences with these massive eagles in Japan. Plus, we off...
2021-12-2259 minLife List: A Birding PodcastTurkeys in a landfillThe guys start with chatting birding updates and well-documented views of beers among birders. Then they dive in: they’re at risk of overdoing their interest in gulls, but they just don’t care. One cool thing about gulls is that it’s often relatively easy to get great looks at them — the challenge is in learning from what you’re seeing! Needless to say, the pod is ready for gull season to kick off. And what else comes around with gull season? Christmas Bird Count season, of course! They also chat about national birds, ABA’s Bird of the Year unv...
2021-11-2753 minLife List: A Birding PodcastEp 10: That's called naked birding!You're in for a great story this week! Alvaro gives us an update on his journey through hearing loss and regaining it through a cochlear implant. But before that, we chat about late fall birding, Elaenia IDs, and more about ear birding. Highlight bird species: Various Elaenias, including Small-billed and White-crestedLocations mentioned: Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, west coast pelagics Don’t miss out: on BirdabilitySend your topic ideas to lifelistpodcast@gmail.comGet more Life list b...
2021-11-081h 04Life List: A Birding PodcastEp 9: A glass-half-full BobolinkThis week, the guys talk George’s wedding and house search (Do you think they made an eBird checklist? The answer may surprise you!); the Naturally Adventurous podcast; Black Rails and their close relatives; how genetics and appearances can differ; Kirtland’s Warblers seen throughout fall migration, plus notes on their evolution; the Cape May Fall Festival; and chasing Sulphur-bellied Flycatchers.Highlight bird species: Black Rail and close relatives, Kirtland’s Warbler; Sulphur-bellied FlycatcherLocations mentioned: Western Kansas, the Jack Pine region of Michigan and beyond; Cape MayDon’t...
2021-10-2648 minLife List: A Birding PodcastEp 8: It's Good to Have PantsPelagic updates, how to prepare for a birding trip, and more. Join us! Get more Life list by subscribing to our newsletter and joining our Patreon for bonus content. Talk to us and share your topic ideas at lifelistpodcast.com. Thanks to Kowa Optics for sponsoring our podcast! Want to know more about us? Check out George's company, Hillstar Nature; Alvaro's company, Alvaro's Adventures, and Mollee's company, Nighthawk Agency, to see more about what we're up to.
2021-10-0451 minLife List: A Birding PodcastEp 7: Alvaro's Adventure in SpainThe guys catch up on Hurricane Ida and how an interest in natural history can lead to an interest in observing weather-related phenomenons before diving into the good stuff: updates from Alvaro's ongoing Spanish Adventure. Oh, and pelagics. There's always pelagics. Topics covered include: The worst flooding in nearly 150 years in parts of the eastern United States, how storms and flooding affect birds, lots of updates on birding and migration in Spain, and musing on travel during Covid.Highlight bird species: Honey buzzards, various raptors, storks, and more European migrants; Bridled...
2021-09-091h 00Life List: A Birding PodcastEp 6: The increasingly golden era of birding and ornithologyDo you know the state bird of Utah, and how it came to be? How old are the oldest hummingbirds on record? Which gulls are of the cherry-picking variety? Get answers to these questions and so much more in this episode of Life List. Topics covered include: Seasonal changes in birding; American Ornithological Society (AOS) updates, including a focus on genomics and inverted genes; why the western raptor that George spotted in New Jersey didn’t make the rare bird alerts; record-breaking gull lifespans and old birds including (you guessed it) albatrosses and storm-petrels, with a sh...
2021-08-2356 minLife List: A Birding PodcastEp 5: A Moonbird for the Moon PeopleIn this episode, we chat about updates on cicadas and west-coast pelagics, Olympian-quality birds, the fear of owls (and fear of showing people owls), and more birdy stuff. Send us your questions for our next episode, where you can Ask Us Anything!Topics covered include: Cicadas and their affinity with prime numbers; bird and mammal reports from Farallon Islands pelagic trips; the underdogs of the Bird Olympics (we couldn’t resist); bird names for sports teams; an introduction to bird and dog breed comparisons; oclophobia (which appears to be a fear of owls); and hey, you...
2021-08-0952 minLife List: A Birding PodcastEp 4: Mosquito Birth ControlGeorge, Mollee and Alvaro chat together for the first time on Life List. Mollee introduces herself, and the amazing rooftop tent! Alvaro mentions his first June trip to the Farallon Islands, CA. George “cancels” on Subaru at the Philly flower show. But the main discussion is about the Aloha State. Mollee gives us her impression as a first-time birder to Hawaii. George impresses us with his fish knowledge. And we all discuss how Hawaii is amazing, and also a conservation emergency zone. Some native species have become quite rare in just a decade! Climate change is causing the “mosquito line”...
2021-07-1745 minLife List: A Birding PodcastEp 3: And from the guy who wrote the book, no lessGeorge and Al discuss their local birding endeavors, flightless birds, and Al is almost stumped on naming the two North American birds that undergo two full molts in a year. Hear a killer Virginia Rail/Three Stooges impression and the real reason we named our podcast Life List. Plus, are you a restauranteur? George is revealing his brilliant idea, for free, right here, just for you. Topics covered include: Volcanic effects on birds in the Caribbean, a population-versus-species mindset for conservation, a philosophical deep-dive on bird listing, and breakfast foods from around the world
2021-07-0252 minLife List: A Birding PodcastEp 2: Doh! I am gone [Insert Orange-Breasted Falcon]Find out what makes George shriek like a small child and learn all about the Ridiculously Resilient Ridge as we discuss some of our first travel plans since the pandemic started. Also hear a teaser for Alvaro’s talk, Birding Fast and Slow, that deep dives into how our brains translate bird identification as our confidence as birders grows. PS - We have cited proof that watching birds bring people more happiness than money!Topics covered include: Alvaro on the RRR, George’s recent trip to Colombia, “snake-aphobia," and Mollee and Mandy’s upcoming tour to Hawaii.High...
2021-06-1649 minLife List: A Birding PodcastEp 1: Welcome to the Pod!Jumping off, Alvaro & George get Life List going by sharing their birding origins and dipping lightly into the vagaries of gulls and gull people, as well as why birding itself is such a great pastime. Alvaro recalls meeting Batman, his days (or daze?) in “peanut butter & jelly production” and how he used to think golf was weird, while George reveals his plans to announce a new “anti- sesquipedalian society.”Topics covered include: The Pribilof Islands, Kim K & Kanye’s separation, Philly pride, backyard birds, how birding is rewarding, views on subspecies, and birding’s burgeoning popularity.
2021-06-0250 min