Seeing a snowy owl is a rare privilege. Snowy owls are magnificent birds, and attract considerable attention when they visit the Lower 48 in winter. Enthusiastic observers and photographers should understand and remember that these birds may be stressed by hunger and long-distance travel. It is important to resist the temptation to get too close for a clearer look or better photograph.

It's not uncommon this time of year to hear this cry for help after an unsuspecting birder opens a door to startle an unsuspecting bird that accidentally flies in the wrong direction—right into the house! Here are a few tips on what to do—and what not to do—to help the bird safely find its way back out.  

Soon after nesting season ends, many birds replace their feathers. Songbirds generally lose and regrow a few feathers at a time, so molt is hardly noticeable. But some birds, especially northern cardinals and blue jays, can lose all their head feathers at one time—a catastrophic molt. Not all cardinals or blue jays do this, but a significant number do, and it’s considered healthy and normal.

To some, sparrows may seem insignificant—a group of mostly small, mostly brown, superficially similar songbirds. Even those of us who love birds may be tempted to brush sparrows off as "little brown jobs." But the truth is that there are several dozen sparrow species in North America alone, and each is unique with something special to offer. As the weather continues to turn colder, many types of sparrows are moving south, showing up in weedy fields, along woodland edges, and at backyard feeders across the country. How much do you know about this ubiquitous group of birds? Take our quiz!