1

Woodpecker

Image: Jaime Dantas

Surely, we could all recognize Woody Woodpecker's famous laugh anywhere, but have you ever wondered why this type of bird knocks on wood? Woodpeckers have larger and stronger bills than other birds. They use their beaks not only to dig holes in trees for nesting but also to drum on resonant objects like hollow logs and branches to communicate to other woodpeckers, about their territory and their availability to mate.

But is it true that they hammer away at wood at an incredible speed, as seen in the beloved cartoon? Yes! For example, the Red-headed Woodpecker, found in temperate North America, has the highest g-force (force of acceleration) experienced by a bird. When pecking wood, they hit trees with an impact force of 1,200 g’s. By comparison, astronauts on space shuttles experience 3.5 g's during takeoff, while a force of 60-100 g’s can cause a human concussion.

2

Northern Cardinal

Image: Joshua J. Cotten

Did you know most female songbirds in North America usually don't sing? Fortunately, both male and female Northern Cardinals break this trend with their beautiful songs . As a matter of fact, sometimes they even perform duets! Mated pairs usually sing back and forth to each other, sharing information about food sources and nest activity.

Another cool fact about Northern Cardinals is their tendency to fight their own reflections in windows and vehicle mirrors. Experts claim they see their image as a competing bird and attack it to defend their territory. This behavior can go on for days, even months.

Nevertheless, despite this somewhat aggressive attitude, Northern Cardinals are one of America's favorite birds. They hold the distinction of being the state bird of seven states: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia.

3

Brown Thrasher

Image: Joshua J. Cotten

The Brown Thrasher may be an elusive, hard-to-see bird but it certainly doesn't go unnoticed. The state bird of Georgia, found throughout the eastern and central United States and southern and central Canada, is well known for its remarkable songs.

In fact, this big, foxy-red bird is not only a prolific singer but also an expert mimic, with an impressive repertoire of more than 1,100 tunes! And thrashers are so good at keeping the natural world entertained that they will repeat each phrase of a song twice before singing the next one.

4

Northern Mockingbird

Image: Patrice Bouchard

The Northern Mockingbird is another remarkable mimic. This bird listens to the songs of nearby species and learns to replicate their tunes. In fact, a male may learn around 200 songs throughout its life. The mockingbird, however, can be a bit more monotonous than the Brown Thrasher: it repeats phrases up to six times before moving on to the next one. Have you ever had one in your backyard?

Apart from its musical abilities, the Northern Mockingbird, very common in towns and cities, especially in the South, is one of the most influential birds in American culture. It serves as the state bird for five states : Arkansas, Florida, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas. It also appears in many books, TV shows, folk songs, and lullabies.

5

Marsh Wren

Image: Alexis LOURS

Marsh Wrens are songbirds too, but in their case, it’s all about impressing the ladies! The Marsh Wren, a tiny brown bird found all around North America, learns songs from other males and sings them nearly identically. With a repertoire of more than 100 melodies, males often engage in musical duels and sing back and forth to each other to impress the females with their musical abilities.

But singing isn’t their only strategy for winning over a mate. Male Marsh Wrens build up to 20 dummy nests made from cattails for prospective females to evaluate. The female then chooses which one she prefers to lay her eggs in. Unused nests are left as is to confuse predators or are used by adult birds to sleep during nonmating seasons.

6

Black-capped Chickadee

Image: Margaret Strickland

The Black-capped Chickadee, the state bird of both Massachusetts and Maine, is a very popular bird across the northern United States. This small black, white, and tan bird, roughly the size of a sparrow, is well known for its vocalizations and for its ability to conserve energy during the winter months.

In extremely cold weather, Black-capped Chickadees enter a state of dormancy known as torpor. At night, the birds seek shelter and become inactive, causing their core body temperature to drop slightly. As they alternate shivering with staying still, the heart rate decreases. When they reach a full state of torpor, they lose consciousness. Toward morning, the birds start shivering again to regain temperature. This way, the Black-capped Chickadee starts the day afresh, using the precious fat it saved during the night as energy.

7

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Image: Skyler Ewing

They might be tiny but the myth that Ruby-throated Hummingbirds migrate on the backs of Canada Geese is totally false. Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, the most common hummingbirds in eastern North America, migrate south at the end of summer, traveling to temperate climates in Central and South America entirely on their own.

This iridescent red and green bird is so small that it makes the most minuscule nests. The nest of a Ruby-throated Hummingbird is around the size of half of a walnut shell—only 1½ inches wide! Also, the smaller the bird, the fewer the feathers. The Ruby-throated Hummingbird is a record holder for the fewest feathers in a bird, less than 1,000 in total. For reference, a Whistling Swan, the record holder for the most feathers, boasts about 20,000 individual feathers.

8

Owls

Image: Keith Lazarus

Owls are both cherished and mysterious creatures. In North America, there are 19 different species, each with its own curious characteristics. For example, the Elf Owl, found in the Southwestern United States and Mexico, is special because it’s the smallest owl in the world —measuring just 5 inches tall!

Night-hunting owls present in North America, such as Barn Owls, Long-eared Owls, and Boreal Owls, have the best hearing in the bird world. Many of these nocturnal owls have asymmetrical ear openings, one opening higher and one larger. This unique adaptation allows sound to enter their ears at slightly different times, helping them to accurately triangulate the position of their prey. Also, Barn Owls have a specialized middle claw called pectinate claws. This special feature is a serrated edge that serves as a built-in comb to get rid of debris or parasites.

9

Snow Goose

Image: David Dibert

Isn't it great when we get to spot those amazing V-shaped migration formations in the sky? Did you know that most of North America’s small birds don’t fly in formations? They travel alone or alongside other birds that happen to be heading in the same direction. The Snow Goose, however, is an exception, often flying in huge V formations or single-angled lines.

During migration, Snow Geese, native to North America, form some of the largest flocks in the bird world. Flocks of more than 100,000 Snow Geese are a common sight during their northward spring migration. In some areas, such as Nebraska, there are even records of flocks with millions of geese. Flying in formations allows Snow Geese to save energy during flight.

10

Bald Eagle

Image: Pixabay

If you thought that, since it’s the national symbol of the United States of America, you knew all about the Bald Eagle, these facts will probably blow your mind! Did you know that young Bald Eagles are born with brown eyes, which eventually turn yellow? And what about the fact that they have talons that can grow up to 2 inches long , helping them grasp prey tightly for a quick kill?

Furthermore, Bald Eagles make the largest nests of any bird species. The largest Bald Eagle nest ever recorded measured more than 9 feet wide and 20 feet deep and was found in St. Petersburg, Florida. What's even more impressive is that they reuse their nests for many years—sometimes even decades. A Bald Eagle nest in Vermilion, Ohio, was used for 35 years in a row—mortgage-free! Can you imagine?

1

The Supremes

Image: Namroud Gorguis

The ‘60s gave us The Supremes, which was not only one of the most successful girl groups ever but also had the iconic Diana Ross among its members.

Have you heard "Stop! In the name of love / Before you break my heart / Think it over / Think it over"? But that unforgettable 1965 hit was not the Supremes' only success. They created many other hits, such as the famous "You Can't Hurry Love" from 1966. In fact, the group had 12 number-one singles on the Billboard Hot 100!

The influence of this successful group was so deep that it inspired and contributed to the flourishing and recognition of many other girl groups in the decades that followed, some of which are also on this list.

2

The Jackson 5

Image: Markus Spiske

The Supremes were not the only musical group that gave rise to an iconic solo star. The Jackson 5 appeared in 1964, featuring a very young Michael Jackson and his four brothers: Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, and Marlon.

In the late ‘60s and ‘70s, the Jackson brothers achieved great success. In fact, one of their first singles, "I Want You Back," from 1969, became a number-one hit. When that song was played all over America, Michael Jackson was only 11 years old! Tunes like "The Love You Save" and "I'll Be There" are just a few of the other hits that followed.

In addition, The Jackson 5 had their own TV show, "The Jacksons" (from 1976 to 1977), and they were even inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997!

3

The Monkees

Image: Austin Prock

If you hear, "I thought love was only true in fairy tales..." you know how the lyrics of that song go on, right?

The Beatles' film A Hard Day's Night inspired an American series called The Monkees , televised from 1966 to 1968. If you watched it, you probably remember the musical band of the same name, created specifically for the show. Originally composed of Micky Dolenz, Michael Nesmith, Peter Tork, and Davy Jones, The Monkees achieved great musical success, particularly with the hit we just mentioned, "I'm a Believer," which remains famous worldwide.

4

The Ronettes

Image: Gayatri Pandkar

The '60s were prolific in musical groups, and one of the most popular was The Ronettes, a girl group formed by sisters Veronica Bennett (later known as Ronnie Spector) and Estelle Bennett, along with their cousin Nedra Talley. Have you listened to some of their hits, such as "Be My Baby," "Baby, I Love You," and "Walking in the Rain"?

In addition to their catchy tunes, what distinguished The Ronettes was their style, characterized by dramatic makeup, beehive hairstyles , and iconic outfits.

Despite their influence, many years passed before they were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007 .

5

The Pointer Sisters

Image: Haley Lawrence

Pop, soul, R&B, jazz, country, and even dance music were some of the genres played by The Pointer Sisters, the girl group from Oakland, California, that rose to fame in the 70s. Their talent and versatility kept them going for several decades!

As their name suggests, The Pointer Sisters were a trio made up of sisters Anita, June, and Ruth Pointer. "I'm So Excited," "Jump (For My Love)," and "Fire" were some of the most famous hits of this three-time Grammy Award-winning group. Have you listened to them? You probably have!

6

New Kids on the Block

Image: Florian Schmetz

NKOTB was the coolest way to refer to the legendary New Kids on the Block (in fact, their fan base called themselves "NKOTB Nation"). Formed in 1984 in Boston, Massachusetts, this boy band triumphed in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s.

NKOTB paved the way for other boy bands that emerged in the '90s, reshaping our concept of pop music. "You Got It (The Right Stuff)," "Hangin' Tough," and "Step by Step" were just a few of their many hits, which made them winners of several American Music Awards during their peak years. They also sold more than 80 million records worldwide!

If you want to remember NKOTB, you can listen to their songs, of course, but you can also visit their star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where they've been honored since 2014.

7

Salt-N-Pepa

Image: Ben Wiens

In 1985, Queens , New York, saw the birth of Salt-N-Pepa, a legendary hip-hop group that became one of the first female groups in the genre.

Did you ever dream of forming a band when you were in college? We did! So did the members of Salt-N-Pepa. They not only made it happen, but they also became a huge success.

With hits like "Push It," "Shoop," "Whatta Man," and many others, these girls were everywhere. They had so much flow and rhythm that, in 2005, they were inducted into the Dance Music Hall of Fame!

8

Backstreet Boys

Image: Steve Johnson

If someone says, "Tell me why," many of us would probably respond with, "Ain't nothing but a heartache." And that's just one of the many ways the Backstreet Boys have left their mark across generations.

As one of the best-selling boy bands, Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, AJ McLean, Brian Littrell, and Kevin Richardson were a sensation in the late '90s and early 2000s . Their music was everywhere, and fans were desperate to meet them.

As you know, they had several hits that we still remember, such as "I Want It That Way," "Quit Playing Games (With My Heart)," and "As Long As You Love Me." You've probably danced to the beat of some of these hit songs, right? Did you have a favorite?

9

Destiny's Child

Image: Rob Sarmiento

Beyoncé Knowles, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams were the final and best-known members of a girl group called Destiny's Child. Do any of these names ring a bell?

Big hits like "Say My Name" and "Bills, Bills, Bills"—which won them a couple of Grammy Awards, by the way—launched these women to total stardom. Destiny's Child was a constant presence on the charts during the late ‘90s and early 2000s, and had us all singing catchy lyrics like "Say my name, say my name / If no one is around you, say baby I love you."

In addition to several major hits that still live on in many people's minds and hearts, Destiny's Child gave us the incredible, iconic, record-breaking Beyoncé . What more could we ask for?

10

'N Sync

Image: Alphacolor

This list could never be complete without mentioning the unforgettable 'N Sync.

Not only was this one of pop's most legendary boy bands, but it also featured one member who eventually became a solo superstar. Yes, you guessed it— we're talking about Justin Timberlake! He, along with JC Chasez, Chris Kirkpatrick, Joey Fatone, and Lance Bass, formed 'N Sync in 1995. Their first album, released in 1998, sold over 10 million copies in the U.S. alone and included hits like "I Want You Back."

The faces of the 'N Sync members were everywhere: on posters, T-shirts, dolls, and all sorts of merchandise, selling out not just in the U.S. but also in other parts of the world. Remember their performance at the 2001 Super Bowl ?

1

Chicken Tetrazzini, California

Image: Lampos Aritonang

California is famous for several dishes, including sushi, avocadoes, and many more but the Chicken Tetrazzini is also a very popular and delicious local dish. Named for an Italian-born opera star who lived in San Francisco, the dish involves thin sliced chicken served with mushrooms in a cream-based sauce flavored with white wine .

The dish was supposedly invented in the early 1900s by Ernest Arbogast, the chef at the Palace Hotel in San Francisco, where Luisa Tetrazzini made her American debut at the Tivoli as Gilda in Rigoletto in 1905.

2

Scrapple, Delaware

Image: Martinet Sinan

While the name may not sound all that appealing, the flavor makes up for it. This meat loaf is made of cornmeal, flour, seasonings, and pork scraps , which gives it its name. It’s then sliced thinly and pan-fried before serving.

As the story goes, this dish owes its existence to the Pennsylvania Dutch not wanting to waste their meat trimmings. Locals claim that it makes for an excellent snack or breakfast addition.

3

Italian Beef, Illinois

Image: Farhad Ibrahimzade

It sounds like beef, but it is a beef sandwich, actually. This deliciousness is made by slow-cooking beef, slicing it thinly, and placing it into a white bread roll with a local hot pickled pepper relish or roasted sweet peppers.

The origin of this dish is informed by Chicago’s meat packing history, as it was made quickly as a lunch item for workers with ingredients at hand.

4

Bierock, Kansas

Image: Jeremias Ybañez

Quite similar to Argentinean "empanadas", bierock are small meat pies created in Kansas by German immigrants in the late 1800s. They are typically stuffed with cabbage, ground beef, and onion but many other flavors can be found as the format lends itself to creativity and can be stuffed with just about anything.

These savory treats are common among the German community and it was brought to the United States in the 1870s by German Russian Mennonite immigrants.

5

Toasted Ravioli, Missouri

Image: Lorenzo Tomassetti

A local specialty from St. Louis, "toasted" ravioli are actually deep-fried and meant to be dipped in sauce and eaten with your hands . They function as an appetizer, entrée, and snack. As the legend goes, in the early 1940s, a raviolo was accidentally dropped into the fryer by a chef. Apparently, someone thought that this happy accident tasted good because, shortly thereafter, the item began appearing on menus across The Hill.

6

Cider Doughnuts, New Hampshire

Image: Pere Jurado

New Hampshire cider doughnuts get their flavor from cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple cider used in the batter. These are cakey donuts, perfect for snacking during fall, and are a harvest tradition sometimes sold at cider mills. They are often paired with apple cider and may be covered with cinnamon and/or granulated sugar.

7

Kase Knoephla, North Dakota

Image: Frank Zhang

These hard-to-pronounce cheese buttons are a form of dumplings of German origin, a nod to the settlers who immigrated to the area. They’re stuffed with a cottage cheese mixture and served with sauteed onions, cheese, and sour cream .

These treats have some similarities with Italian ricotta ravioli. The recipe for the noodle dough is exactly the same as a common recipe for pasta, and the recipe for the cheese is similar to at least one version of ricotta.

8

Pepperoni Rolls, West Virginia

Image: Jez Timms

Imagine a soft white bread roll stuffed with slices of pepperoni and you will be picturing a pepperoni roll. This dish can attribute its existence to the local coal mining industry, as it was created by an Italian baker so miners would have a no-fuss lunch they could pack for work.

During baking, the fats in the pepperoni melt, resulting in a spicy oil suffusing into the bread. Pepperoni rolls are typically eaten for lunch or breakfast, either unheated or slightly warmed.

9

Conch fritters, Florida

Image: Anshu A

You can skip this one if you are not into snails but if you are, by all means, read on. Conch are large sea snails native to the Florida Keys, the Bahamas, and surrounding regions battered and fried as to become a deliciously salty and savory snack.

This dish can be eaten on its own, or fried with chips, or in a seafood salad. But the fritters are perfect for sharing.

10

Ham Balls, Iowa

Image: Сергей Орловский

It should come as no surprise that a state with so many pork farms has its own version of a metaball but with ham. Or at least partially, since ham balls have a mixture of ground meats: ground ham, ground beef, and ground pork . Ham is a cured cut of pork with a smoky quality, it contains a different flavor than ground pork alone.

While these three types of meat together might sound like an odd combination, the mixture results in a flavorful and perfectly textured meatball. Also, to differentiate even further from the classic meatballs, ham balls use graham cracker crumbs instead of breadcrumbs.