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The Science of Birds

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

PublishesWeeklyEpisodes135Founded5 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
Life SciencesScienceNature

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Artwork for The Science of Birds

Latest Episodes

👕 Bird Merch —  Get yourself some bird shirts!

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Episode 127 of The Science of Birds is Ivan Phillipsen’s annual review of fascinating ornithology stories from 2025. Learn about a handful of standout studies that deepened what we know about bird... 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!

~~~

In this episode—which is number 126—Ivan Phillipsen heads to the seashore to explore the iconic Herring Gulls whose calls define the soundscape of coasts across North America and Europe. Listeners... 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

Key Facts

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Podcast Host
Number of Listeners
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Host

Ivan Phillipsen
Host of an engaging exploration of bird biology, with a focus on making content informative and entertaining for a diverse audience.

Reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars from 2.6k ratings
  • Super-duper

    I absolutely Love this Podcast! Its so relaxing and informative, Ivan is a brilliant narrator and i have learnt a lot! Thank you for making a wonderful contribution to this world 😊 thank you from Cornwall!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Jetsquire
    United Kingdom2 months ago
  • Hummingbird episode is a must!

    Great podcast. Very well done, informative, good pace and easy to listen to.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    YL20645
    United States3 months ago
  • Love this show

    So fun, so nerdy!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    catnamedchicken
    United States3 months ago
  • Would recommend

    A podcast comparable to some warm soup on a winters day! I absolutely love the format of each informative episode . It fuels my passion for birds in such a wholesome way. Thank you!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Robyn wren
    United Kingdom3 months ago
  • Great podcast

    If you live birds you will love this focused, intriguing, well rounded story of Sage Grouse. Highly recommended.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    KeithHackland
    United States3 months ago

Listeners Say

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

Listeners have praised the captivating storytelling and the engaging delivery of information, making complex topics approachable and enjoyable.
Many reviews highlight the host's humor and knowledge, creating a well-rounded listening experience that appeals to both novices and experienced birders.
The podcast is often recommended for its educational value, with several listeners noting its effectiveness in igniting enthusiasm for ornithology and bird conservation.

Chart Rankings

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

Apple Podcasts
#6
United States/Science/Nature
Apple Podcasts
#45
United States/Science
Apple Podcasts
#10
Canada/Science/Nature
Apple Podcasts
#24
United Kingdom/Science/Nature
Apple Podcasts
#85
Canada/Science
Apple Podcasts
#161
United Kingdom/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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Frequently Asked Questions About The Science of Birds

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

This podcast offers an engaging and accessible exploration of avian biology, featuring a mix of humor and scientific insights. Each episode focuses on a different bird or bird-related topic, promoting a deeper understanding of ornithology and the ecology surrounding birds. Notable themes include conservation, unique bird behaviors, and the challenges faced by various species, all presented in a way that is enjoyable for both avid bird enthusiasts and casual listeners alike. The host, who has a PhD in Zoology, connects personally with the audience by sharing anecdotes from his birding adventures and encouraging a sense of wonder about the natural world.

Listeners can expect to learn about a diverse range of birds and topics, from respirator... more

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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. In Defense of Plants Podcast
4. Outside/In
5. The Wild with Chris Morgan

How many episodes of The Science of Birds are there?

The Science of Birds launched 5 years ago and published 135 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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