By Darcy Thomas
Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a wondrous holiday season and that you were able to get out and see some pretty birds.
There have been some recent changes in the taxonomic classification of birds based on their characteristics, distribution, and genetics that you may like to know about. Some bird species were “split” into two or more species while others were “lumped” from multiple species into one. This was not done to confuse you and keep you on your toes. Rather, as our understanding of birds increases, it makes sense to group them according to attributes and similarities. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology has updated eBird and other applications to help you keep track of these changes and make it easier for you as a birder. Worldwide there are three newly described species, 141 species gained because of splits, and 16 species lost through lumps, resulting in a net gain of 128 species and a new total of 11,145 species.
For a complete list of all taxonomic changes, check out the2024 eBird Taxonomy Updatepage. Thankfully, there are just a few birds recognized in Montana that have been affected by these taxonomic changes.
Research has revealed that the members of the Accipiter genus are not closely related. Cooper’s Hawk and American Goshawk along with several hawks from other parts of the world were moved to the genus Astur. They were placed together because of their hefty size, their slow wing beats, and their similar cries. The only true Accipiter in our part of the world is the Sharp-shinned Hawk.Herring Gullwill be split into four species. Of these four, the American Herring Gull can be found in Montana. This change was made because geographically separate populations of these large-bodied, white-headed gulls do not interbreed as extensively as once thought. The House Wrenis to be divided into seven species. Two are found in the Americas. The wren we know in Montana is now called the Northern House Wren. Barn Owlshave been split into three species. The Barn Owl we see in North America including Montana is now the American Barn Owl. As Barn Owl screeches become decoded we are likely to see more splits in the future. Until now there have been three Redpoll species. No longer. The Common, Hoary, and Lesser Redpolls are now just called Redpoll (Acanthis flammea). This lumping is because their differences in appearance is controlled by a single “supergene”. They lack genomic distinctiveness.
So, there you have it. I do encourage you to read the eBird update page for more detailed information on the subject. It may be a good idea to markup your bird guides with this current information.
Happy Birding!