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Peregrine falcons are making skyscrapers in many large cities their new homes. By living in urban areas and nesting on tall bridges and skyscrapers instead of cliffs, they have plentiful food and safe nesting areas. In Massachusetts, there are now about 35 pair of these previously endangered birds, more than there have ever been. The population rebounded after the birds shifted their habitat. Some are nesting in skyscrapers in downtown Boston. Listen to this story about three fledgling peregrine falcons who are learning to fly from their nest on the 19th floor of Boston University housing tower.
Story Length: 5:58
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December 24, 2015
7:22
Ornithologists listening to various bird calls were surprised to discover that different animal species shared the same warning call. For instance, squirrels closely mimic a bird’s warning call. These scientists record sounds in the wilderness all over the world to learn about animal communication. In this story they share different ways they provoke the birds into making bird calls so that they can be studied. Listen to hear about the discoveries of scientists who listen closely.
Read MoreDecember 9, 2014
6:00
Most streets in the United States were designed for cars, not for people riding bicycles or walking. In densely populated cities this has meant that people are forced to live on streets where they don’t feel safe walking and cycling. A new movement, called “complete streets,” pushes cities to design streets to fit the needs of all the people who use it, not just people in cars. Listen to learn how this “complete streets” movement is being put into effect in cities across the country.
Read MoreSeptember 23, 2014
5:12
A recent report shows carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere rose at a record rate in 2013. Humans aren’t the only species affected by these changes. A new report by the National Audubon Society makes it clear that bird species in the U.S. and Canada are at risk of losing their habitats and potentially their lives due to climate change. Listen to this public radio story with your class to learn more about the links between changing temperatures and bird habitat and survival.
Read MoreAugust 4, 2014
4:29
Birds like the Black-Throated Blue Warbler are migratory birds that travel from America to Mexico and Central America during the winter. The Bird Ambassadors Program recruits new American immigrants from the same area to plant bushes and flowers for the birds' "pit stop" in the United States. Listen to this public radio story to hear about the connection these immigrants make with the migratory birds.
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