
About this episode
👕 Bird Merch — Get yourself some bird shirts!
~~~
This is Episode 124. Host Ivan Phillipsen takes you on a tour of Mimidae—the New World family that includes mockingbirds, thrashers, catbirds, and tremblers. He describes the key features of these songbirds and what sets them apart.
Ivan explores the sounds that make this family famous: rich, extended songs, dazzling vocal control, and—for many species—impressive mimicry.
You'll also learn about mimid diversity and evolution, from North American backyards to Caribbean islands and desert specialists of the Southwest, plus a look at conservation challenges facing some species.
Links of Interest
- Northern Mockingbird Wing Flashing [VIDEO]
- Catbird singing [VIDEO]
Get every episode summarized
Each time The Science of Birds publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
Hosts & guests
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from The Science of Birds

Random Bird Thursday: A Highly Vocal Species With Female Helpers
The Science of Birds

Grebes
The Science of Birds

Random Bird Thursday: A Citrus-themed Species with Runny Mascara
The Science of Birds

From the Field: Australia
The Science of Birds