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The Science of Birds

Ivan Phillipsen
Birds
Avian Digestive System
Owl
Paridae
Bird Beaks
Chickadees
House Sparrow
Energy
Nutrients
Metabolism
Titmice
Tits
Proventriculus
Gizzard
Conservation
Ornithology
Watsene
Spruce Grouse
Crop Milk
Rhinocinesis

The Science of Birds is a lighthearted exploration of bird biology. It's a fun resource for any birder or naturalist who wants to learn more about ornithology. Impress your birding friends at cocktail parties with all of your new bird knowledge! Hosted by Ivan Phillipsen, a professional birding guide and passionate naturalist with a PhD in Zoology.

PublishesTwice monthlyEpisodes128Founded5 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
Life SciencesNatureScience

Listen to this Podcast

Artwork for The Science of Birds

Latest Episodes

In each Random Bird Thursday (RBT) episode, the goal is to highlight a bird species that probably isn't going to get featured in a full-length podcast episode. These are birds we might overlook, even though they certainly deserve some appreciation an... more

👕 Bird Merch —  Get yourself some bird shirts!

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In Episode 123 Ivan Phillipsen explores the fascinating world of subspecies—the diversity that exists within bird species. Learn how these populations arise, why ornithologists sometimes struggle ... more

In each Random Bird Thursday (RBT) episode, the goal is to highlight a bird species that probably isn't going to get featured in a full-length podcast episode. These are birds we might overlook, even though they certainly deserve some appreciation an... more

👕 Bird Merch —  Get yourself some bird shirts!

~~~

This is Episode 122. Host Ivan Phillipsen takes listeners into the vast sagebrush steppe of western North America and introduces the remarkable birds that call it home—the sage grouse. These birds... more

Key Facts

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Host

Ivan Phillipsen
Host of The Science of Birds, a professional birding guide and passionate naturalist with a PhD in Zoology.

Reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars from 2.5k ratings
  • Perfect!

    Mr . Phillipsen has created the perfect template for a show mixing science and layman knowledge. I’m looney for birds!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Maggotdrifter
    United Statesa month ago
  • Great for me!

    I love this podcast because it is just the right mix of some common facts about birds and then a deep dive in some birds and Ivan is got the perfect blend of fun and serious. I love the wide range of topics.. I think you should do an episode on black skimmers they are my spark bird!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    photoreynolds
    United Statesa month ago
  • Birbs are great!

    Thank you for expanding my knowledge and passion for birds!

    PS: I would like and episode on Moas or other extinct birds

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    King Burt 4eva
    United States2 months ago
  • Did I make an account for the sole purpose of reviewing this podcast? Maybe. But it is my civil duty as a member of the certified Bird Nerd Club™ to ensure that everyone knows: this podcast is the best and MUST continue forever.

    Podchaser
    5
    Ryleigh
    2 months ago
  • Random bird Thursday was fun!

    Keep up the good work, Ivan!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    amanda k starkey
    United States2 months ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Feedback indicates that the podcast fosters a sense of community among bird lovers and encourages familial engagement with nature.
Many reviews highlight the podcast's educational value for both new and seasoned birders.
Listeners appreciate the balance of humor and science, making complex topics accessible and entertaining.
The host's personal anecdotes and field experiences resonate well with the audience, enhancing engagement.
Listeners enjoy the focus on conservation and the diversity of bird species discussed.

Chart Rankings

How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.

Apple Podcasts
#5
United States/Science/Nature
Apple Podcasts
#63
United States/Science
Apple Podcasts
#11
Canada/Science/Nature
Apple Podcasts
#16
United Kingdom/Science/Nature
Apple Podcasts
#109
United Kingdom/Science
Apple Podcasts
#129
Canada/Science

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Ask Me Anything About Birds - Summer 2025
Q: How common are color abnormalities like albinism and leucism?
Albinism is rare, estimated between one in 2000 to one in 30,000, while leucism is more common, about one in 100 to one in 1000.
Ask Me Anything About Birds - Summer 2025
Q: If you could bring back one species of extinct bird, which species would it be and why?
The Carolina Parakeet, because it was once abundant and would be amazing to see back in large flocks.
Ask Me Anything About Birds - Summer 2025
Q: How can I make my yard welcoming and enticing to the local birds?
Focus on planting native species and creating different microhabitats. Include water features and keep cats indoors.
Answers to Your Questions About Birds - AMA - Vol 4
Q: How often do bird parents lose track of their fledglings, and at what point do they give up looking for them?
The duration before a parent bird gives up on searching for a fledgling likely varies among species, and the research on this topic is scant, indicating a need for more studies.
Answers to Your Questions About Birds - AMA - Vol 4
Q: Why do morning doves throw like two sticks and a rock in a pile for a nest and call it good?
Morning doves build flimsy nests that meet their survival needs, suggesting that this minimal effort is sufficient for their breeding success given their short average lifespan.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

Listeners per Episode
Gender Skew
Location
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Professions
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Household Income
Social Media Reach

Frequently Asked Questions About The Science of Birds

What is The Science of Birds about and what kind of topics does it cover?

Content centers around the exploration of various bird species and their biology, blending science with humor to engage listeners. Common topics include species behavior, conservation efforts, and unique ecological niches. Notable episodes showcase personal experiences from birding trips across different regions, including Japan and Mongolia, and highlight the significance of avian conservation efforts. The informative yet entertaining narrative style appeals to both seasoned bird watchers and casual listeners looking to deepen their appreciation for the avian world.

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Which podcasts are similar to The Science of Birds?

These podcasts share a similar audience with The Science of Birds:

1. The American Birding Podcast
2. BirdNote Daily
3. The Warblers by Birds Canada
4. Life List: A Birding Podcast
5. In Defense of Plants Podcast

How many episodes of The Science of Birds are there?

The Science of Birds launched 5 years ago and published 128 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

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