Apr
09

Sidedoor: Hot Bird Summer

Each year, hundreds of rowdy birds descend on the National Zoo like a bunch of college students on spring break. Then, just as suddenly, they disappear. No one knew where they all went, but we’re pretty sure it wasn’t back to school.

Graphic of a bird for Sidedoor 6.7 Hot Bird Summer

Every spring, for as long as records have been kept, a crowd of hundreds of black crowned night herons descend on the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, mating, eating and generally causing a ruckus. Many of the keepers at the zoo enjoy them, but they can be a tough bird to love.

Every fall, peace is restored when the herons decamp and fly off to… where? For more than a century, nobody knew. Until now.

Listen now to the love song of the unlovable black crowned night heron and learn more about their mysterious lives:

Related posts:

Entrance to the renovated Bird House at the National ZooGet a sneak peek at the Zoo’s new beak retreat this week detail from photo of Henson interview from 1983A few of my favorite things: Pam Henson Maned wolf with four pupsAnd now for the mane event! Graphic for SIdedoor 7.11 Raven and the box of daylightRaven and the Box of Daylight

Posted: 9 April 2021
About the Author:

Jessica Sadeq has worked in the Central Office of Public Affairs since June 2007. She is the Marketing Manager for the Office of Communications and External Affairs.