Birds

Sciences & Technology

Birds are the ultimate architects, designing their nests for every climate

Whether it’s a dome, cup or pendant, new research shows bird nest designs match specific climatic conditions, giving hope that some can adjust nesting behaviours for changing weather conditions

Health & Medicine

Bird flu, human cases and the risk to Australia

Avian flu is continuing to spread throughout the world, infecting some mammals as it goes – but what’s the risk to Australia?

Health & Medicine

Tracking avian influenza to safeguard Australia

Outbreaks of avian influenza are accelerating in the Northern Hemisphere, and while the risk to Australia is small, it’s important we monitor the situation closely

Sciences & Technology

Willie wagtails: The werewolves of the bird world

The willie wagtail, an iconic Australian bird, is known for its fan tail and twinkling song. By recording birds across Victoria, a new study shows that willie wagtails also sing to the moon

Health & Medicine

Penguin viruses in the frozen continent

New research investigates whether Antarctic penguins have fewer viruses than other birds and if they act as a reservoir for viruses in birds globally - including the coronavirus

Sciences & Technology

New dimensions in colour

Animals like beetles and birds are teaching us new ways of understanding colour at a nanoscale, which could change the way we manufacture it

Health & Medicine

How our ‘avian athletes’ could spread influenza

New research shows migratory birds are exposed to a highly pathogenic strain of bird flu before they arrive on Australian shores

Health & Medicine

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Under the Microscope

Viruses on the wing

Dr Michelle Wille is studying wild birds to understand how they spread viruses across the globe

Sciences & Technology

The invisible colours protecting birds from overheating

Some Australian birds can control their temperature and avoid overheating by reflecting near-infrared wavelengths of sunlight, regardless of their feather colour

Environment

Why we’re all in a flap about our favourite birds

The unexpected popularity and controversy around Australia’s Bird of the Year 2017 vote shows the strength of our connection with our avian friends