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** The Weekly Bird Word
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12/09/25

This week’s Bird Word:
Torpor

It’s cold out there! Birds don’t come inside when it’s cold, so they have other ways to survive winter temperatures. Torpor occurs when a resting bird lets its metabolism slow down and its body temperature drop below normal, something like short-term hibernation, which allows the bird to conserve energy. ([link removed]) While it can make the bird more vulnerable to predators, torpor is a useful adaptation for surviving long, cold winter nights.

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Chickadees often enter torpor during cold winter nights. Photo: Black-capped Chickadee, Ewa Golebiowska/Audubon Photography Awards


** More in local bird and nature news:
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* In addition to torpor: Birds can either adapt to winter temperatures or migrate to warmer climates. Here are some more ways our resident birds survive the winter ([link removed]) and things you can do to help them.
* Help Protect the Endangered Species Act: We’re holding a virtual discussion and “advocacy power-hour” on Friday ([link removed]) to write and submit comments regarding proposed changes to this important legislation.
* Birds and habitat go hand-in-hand: On Saturday, the Native Plant Circle is hosting a free information session on the W ([link removed]) ildlife Sanctuary Program. ([link removed]) Learn about habitat best practices and tips for native plants selections for turning your property into a sanctuary for wildlife.
* Learn to advocate: We have two great events coming up to help demystify the process of advocating for your legislative priorities. Check out this article for more information ([link removed]) .
* Use and lose Nandina this winter: Glossy red berries, evergreen leaves…Nandina is a beautiful plant, but this invasive is best used for holiday decor and then removed from your garden ([link removed]) and replaced with some equally beautiful native shrubs.
* Calendars are here: Order your 2026 NVBA photo calendar! ([link removed]) These calendars feature the top-voted photos from our recent photo contest and are absolutely stunning. We have options to pick up or ship.
* We need your help: Check out our volunteer page ([link removed]) for all the different ways you can lend a hand! From pulling invasives to helping with tabling events and counting birds and insects, there’s something for everyone.

See you out there,
Northern Virginia Bird Alliance
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