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29-APR-2009

Black Skimmers Flat Out

I found this odd behavior! They all stand the same direction, then we see them mostly all with their "chins" on the ground, a bit later, suddenly they're all grooming themselves, then as we leave, they're all standing with the beaks open. Birds of a feather they say.


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Janet 05-Jun-2009 04:53
Excellent picture!! But I don't see any of them with mouths open. I would think they are just resting (and possibly drying off). I read the Audubon link. It is sad that a hunter would shoot them while they are resting...not very sporting, ah?
Guest 06-May-2009 12:30
What strange birds.
Paul Milholland03-May-2009 19:07
Were they practicing for an earthquake-preparedness drill?
Pam Haley - FrogHouse Photo30-Apr-2009 23:57
Very cool shot. I suspect they are laying on the warm cement to pick up heat. Grooming tucks all the feather back in place and helps keep the heat in. The open beak panting is usually a sign of over heating (they over did it on the cement?.)
Nancy30-Apr-2009 18:03
That was so interesting, got me curious. I asked google 'why' and I found an answer athttp://www.audubon.org/bird/BoA/F42_G1a.html
Guest 30-Apr-2009 17:25
That is weird!
Ed Duverger30-Apr-2009 13:56
Good shot of"mysterious" behaviour
Debbie30-Apr-2009 11:04
Really interesting shot. Look at all the ones laying down to nap, or whatever they are doing. Quite interesting shot of a very interesting bird.
Ann30-Apr-2009 08:59
How wonderful. Looks like they are having an afternoon nap. Excellent catch Linda.
Bea.30-Apr-2009 06:19
Perhaps they like sunbathing? They're such interesting and striking looking birds. Nice shot Linda.
Guest 30-Apr-2009 04:53
Well caught Linda. What strange birds but very pretty.
Ruth Voorhis30-Apr-2009 04:52
Interesting capture of this strange behavior.
Laura Milholland30-Apr-2009 04:51
I wish we had these in our area - they are so unusual looking. (I guess occasionally they may get as far north on our coast as we are). Actually one of my bird books mentions that they often rest with their head stretched forward on the ground - and shows a drawing like your photo. Cool shot, Linda.
fotabug30-Apr-2009 03:47
Oops, I meant to say, Linda. Sorry about that.
fotabug30-Apr-2009 03:47
Wow, that is strange, Laura. Hope they didn't eat something that is causing the behavior
Guest 30-Apr-2009 02:54
Certainly looks unusual to me!
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