We’re wrapping up our recent duck series with a revisit of one of our favorite Birds of a Feather Talk Together episodes: the Wood Duck. Known for its stunning colors, unique nesting habits, and remarkable conservation comeback, the Wood Duck is one of North America’s most iconic ducks. Join us as we look back at this fan-favorite episode and close out our duck deep dive in style.

Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Pole to discuss the Wood Duck.

Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow:

YouTube

Instagram

TikTok

BlueSky

This week on Birds of a Feather Talk Together, we’re diving back into one of our all-time favorite duck episodes—spotlighting the unforgettable harlequin duck, one of the most striking and resilient waterfowl in North America.

Known for nesting along fast-flowing mountain streams and spending winters on rugged, wave-battered coastlines, the harlequin duck is a true marvel of adaptation. From its bold plumage to its extreme habitat choices, this species never fails to amaze birders, ornithologists, and nature lovers alike.

Joining the conversation are married ornithologists John Bates and Shannon Hackett, curators of birds at the Field Museum, along with RJ and Amanda—enthusiastic bird fans who love asking the questions you’re probably thinking.

While we’re gearing up for brand-new episodes, we hope you enjoy this look back at one of our most popular and fascinating duck deep dives. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just discovering the joy of birds, this episode is packed with insight, wonder, and a deep appreciation for one of nature’s most adventurous ducks.

🎧 Listen now and rediscover why the harlequin duck stole our hearts—and continues to inspire awe wherever it appears.

Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow:

YouTube

Instagram

TikTok

BlueSky

In this episode, John breaks down the history and importance of the Christmas Bird Count, one of the longest-running citizen science projects in the world. Then, we dive deep into the fascinating world of the Mallard Duck—one of North America’s most familiar and recognizable waterfowl. From seasonal sexual dimorphism and those iconic iridescent speculum stripes, to how Mallards differ from other duck species, we explore what makes this bird so unique and adaptable. Join John Bates, Shannon Hackett, RJ Pole, and Amanda Marquart for an engaging conversation packed with bird science, identification tips, and fun ornithological insights.

Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow:

YouTube

Instagram

TikTok

BlueSky