Identification of the two dark ibises (genus Plegadis) can range from easy to impossible, depending on their plumage stage. In most parts of Missouri, White-faced Ibis (Plegadis chihi) is more regular and numerous than Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus), but they cannot be firmly identified on the basis of probability. In adult breeding (alternate) plumage (roughly … Read more

This time last year, Burroughs Audubon was busily applying for a Monarch Conservation Grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.  At first glance it may seem a bit odd that a birding group would want to save a butterfly. But Burroughs did- for many reasons. Quality monarch habitat supports many insects and invertebrates that … Read more

Late February -Place and clean out bluebird boxes March 10th – Average Arrival Date For Adult Male Martins (females and young males will filter in through April) Late March – Clean out wren, chickadee, titmouse nest boxes April 5th – Hang Hummingbird Feeders (with small amount of nectar and clean every few days) April 15th – … Read more

When we see a little black and white woodpecker at our feeders or working on a tree we often think ‘Downy Woodpecker’.  Appropriately so, as Downy Woodpeckers are in much larger numbers than their look alike kin- the Hairy Woodpecker.  But who doesn’t want to see a Hairy Woodpecker!  Here’s some ID tips for telling the … Read more

Backyard bird watching is the number two pastime in the United States, second only to gardening.  Winter brings in a variety of birds not seen during the summer months.  In times of harsh weather, birds that are not normal species seen at feeders may show up for a few easy meals.  One of the prized … Read more

On Monday, December 14, Kansas City Mayor Sly James signed the National Wildlife Federation’s Mayor’s Monarch pledge, joining mayors from several other cities including St. Louis, Dallas, San Antonio and Oklahoma City in a commitment to protect and restore monarch butterfly populations.   Monarch populations have declined more than 90% in the past decade due … Read more

One of the best way to bring migrating birds to your yard during fall migration is to provide fruiting shrubs and vines.  Berries help fuel their migration and provide necessary fat and protein to fend off adverse weather. However, not all berries are created equal. Native shrubs produce fruits with fat ranging from 6.57% to 48.72%. … Read more

In a time when most teenagers are more concerned with being near a power outlet than a lake inlet, Lannea Allen is an inspiring exception with her passion for nature.  Specifically Lannea loves birds.  In the 5th grade someone gave her a book on birds that sparked a continued passion. She has carried her affinity … Read more