Summer Fun at Bird Academy
Whether you’re new to birdwatching or just looking for a fresh way to connect with nature, any time is a great time to begin. When it’s hot outside, why not start near the water? Bird Academy has been busy this summer, with content that celebrates waterbirds, shorebird ID, and the paths birding leads us down when we follow with joy and wonder.
Least Sandpiper ID 101: What to Look for
Least Sandpipers are the smallest shorebirds in the world, but they can still be tricky to name when they appear on their own. What field marks can help you ID a Least Sandpiper? There are four visual clues that might help you with an ID in this photo. Click on the parts of the bird to learn more about each field mark.
Find out how Least Sandpipers compare to Sanderlings and train your eye to recognize them with our newest learning quiz, How to ID Sanderlings and Least Sandpipers.
Community Discussion
Share your birdy inspiration!
How do birds inspire you? Chime in to this discussion and let us know! Share some birdy art you’ve created, a poem, a story, or anything else. We can’t wait to see and share in your inspirations!
Articles to Explore
BIRDS BY THE WATER
Birds that flock to the water are fascinating! Discover the adaptations and behaviors that help birds thrive in aquatic habitats. Explore waterbird diversity.
Journey to the Joy of Birds: An Interview with Kevin McGowan
From studying crow families in treetops to designing Bird Academy courses, ornithologist Kevin McGowan’s passion for birding, curiosity, and clear science communication has shaped the heart of Bird Academy. Read Kevin’s story here.
Image Credits
Arctic Tern illustration by Su Delve / Macaulay Library
White-throated Dipper by Iker Fernández Martínez / Macaulay Library
Kevin McGowan by Lee Ann van Leer
Other News and Updates
- Bird Photography Week on the @cornellbirds Instagram page: In June, we spotlighted standout beach bird photographers and their top tips for coastal shots during a wonderful week-long series of posts. Head to our @cornellbirds Instagram feed to check them out. While you’re on Instagram, don’t forget to browse the hashtag #BirdPhotoWeek2025 to see all the amazing shots people shared!
- BirdWise Has Landed! BirdWise, our new bird ID quizzing tool, is now live! It adapts to you—focusing on the birds you want to learn, wherever you are, with 640+ species across the U.S. and Canada.
- Watch: Introducing BirdWise: Discover what BirdWise is, how to use it, and have some fun testing out a few quizzes in this recorded live webinar.
Courses in the Spotlight this Summer
Our self-paced, online courses will help you connect to birds in every season! Check out our full course list, or peruse the exciting courses below.
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