The Vampire Ground-Finch: bloodsucker of the Galápagos

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Advice, birding trip reports, stories and discoveries for bird lovers and nature adventurers around the world on the Birding Experience blog.

The Vampire Ground-Finch: bloodsucker of the Galápagos

In the most remote corner of the Galápagos archipelago, where very few birders ever set foot, an extraordinary bird has evolved a surprising survival strategy. The Vampire Ground-Finch (Geospiza septentrionalis) has developed a unique feeding habit that defies expectations—it drinks the blood of other birds. Found only on the isolated islands of Darwin and Wolf,… (read more)

5 ornithological illustrators of the Americas you shouldn’t miss

Scientific illustration and wildlife art are deeply connected with ornithology and, more broadly, with science and conservation. Through depictions of wildlife and flora in their natural environments, these artists often facilitate the acquisition of new knowledge. More importantly, they forge an emotional bond between us, the audience, and the other living beings. This bond is… (read more)

A new species of antpitta discovered in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia

An exciting discovery has shaken the scientific community: a potential new species of antpitta has been observed in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia. This remarkable find, made by Nemesio Gulfo, a member of the ProAves Foundation team, has generated significant interest in the field of ornithology. The bird was spotted near the ProAves… (read more)

The Harpy Eagle

The Harpy Eagle (Harpia harpyja) is a large bird of prey native to the tropical forests of Central and South America. Renowned for its impressive size, this forest eagle is one of the largest raptors in the world. Female Harpy Eagles are typically larger than males, often weighing up to twice as much. While males… (read more)

The Black-crowned Antpitta (Pittasoma rufopileatum)

Behind this unusual name lies a fascinating little bird from the Conopophagidae family. Discover more about it in an article from Neotropical Birding Magazine. Cover of Neotropical Birding Magazine Issue 24 A unique classification Previously classified in the antpitta family (Grallariidae), the Pittasoma genus is now firmly placed in the small family Conopophagidae.… (read more)

The Christmas bird count: a model of citizen science

For many, Christmas is about sleighs, decorations, and gifts. But for “Grinch-ornithologists,” it’s all about birds, birdwatching outings, and the famous Christmas Bird Count. For over a century, this North American tradition has been carried on and has spread to many countries worldwide. Amateur birders, curious nature lovers, specialized guides, and other enthusiasts join forces… (read more)

The Ecuadorian Ornithology Meetings: a platform for exchange

What exactly is discussed during an ornithology meeting? “Birds, of course,” you might say! But not just birds. Since their inception, the Ecuadorian Ornithology Meetings (EOM – REO in spanish as “Reunión Ecuatoriana de Ornitología“) have provided a space for integration and knowledge sharing among everyone involved with Ecuador’s birds—their study, conservation, and more. Researchers,… (read more)