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The Weekly Bird Word
11/24/25
 
This week’s Bird Word: 
Omnivore

Omnivores are animals that eat everything, both plant and animal matter, and are typically opportunists who make the most of what’s available at a given time. Like humans, the Wild Turkey is also an omnivore, favoring wild nuts, seeds and berries but willing to take insects, fern fronds, salamanders and snails. Whether you prefer to enjoy plant or animal matter this Thanksgiving, we wish you a peaceful and reflective holiday!
Wild Turkeys, like humans, are omnivores, eating everything from nuts and berries to insects and salamanders. Photo: Wild Turkey, October Greenfield/Audubon Photography Awards

More in local bird and nature news: 

  • Something we’re thankful for: YOU, our readers! We love bringing you bird and nature news and programs and hope you find our articles to be helpful, informative, inspiring and uplifting. Our News Page is brimming with articles on everything from birding to wildlife habitat to local advocacy issues, and we are working on making it a more useful, engaging and accessible resource.

  • Calendars are here: Order your 2026 NVBA photo calendar! These calendars feature the top 14 photos from our recent photo contest and are absolutely stunning. We have options to pick up or mail and ordering deadlines for receiving them in time for the holidays. 

  • TONIGHT - Italian eco-tourism and conservation: Ever wondered what birds you can find in Italy? Italian biologist Marco Valtriani can tell you. Join us in person TODAY in Reston and enjoy Italian snacks as you learn about Italian birds!

  • Take a closer look: We hope you can find some time to slow down this holiday season and take a closer look at nature with Judy Gallagher’s fascinating monthly column on local insects, including her incredible close-up photography.

  • Become a Master Naturalist: Applications for the Spring 2026 Basic Training Course open on January 2. Learn more from VMN Fairfax here.

  • Our own almanac: Did you know our Wildlife Sanctuary Program publishes a monthly feature with tips and advice for creating wildlife habitat in your yard? Browse the Wildlife Sanctuary Almanac on our website and sign up to receive the Potomac Flier, which includes this feature every month.

  • We need your help: Check out our volunteer page 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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