Lectures on Tap - "The History & Science of L.A.’s Wild Parrots"

📍 Location: Exact address given in confirmation email

🧠 Lecture: "The History & Science of L.A.’s Wild Parrots"

🎤 Speaker: Prof. John McCormack

Wild parrots have become one of Los Angeles’ most surprising urban icons—but how did these tropical birds end up here, and why are they doing so well?

In this engaging talk, evolutionary biologist and museum curator Prof. John McCormack will separate urban legend from scientific fact. Drawing on genetics, field research, and thousands of public photos, he’ll uncover the true origins of L.A.’s parrots, how they survive and thrive in the city, and even what we know about their family dynamics and love lives.

We’ll also look ahead: What does the future hold for these charismatic birds, and what can they teach us about cities, belonging, and conservation in a rapidly changing world?

Dr. McCormack is a professor of Biology at Occidental College and Director of the Moore Laboratory of Zoology, home to the largest collection of Mexican bird specimens in the world.

Get a drink, connect, and learn at Lectures on Tap! 🙌

Agenda

7:30 PM – Doors open: find a seat (open seating!), order food & drinks, and expect a bar line—arriving early is key.

7:55 PM – Host introduction

8:00 PM – Lecture begins

8:45 PM – Audience Q&A

9:00 PM – Have 1:1 time with the speaker, mingle with fellow guests, and order another round

9:30 PM – Wrap up.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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