Seward, Alaska
One might think birds that had just flown over 11,000 miles together from Antarctica to Alaska might be well-adjusted and compatible. Or perhaps all that travel time made them cranky like kids stuck in the back seat on a long road trip. Or maybe hormones kicked in once on the breeding grounds and caused tempers to flare.
Whatever the reason, a fierce twittering alerted me to a battle snarling high above. A whirlwind ball of white pointed wings and tails rolled across the blue sky. The sharp red bills of the two opponents flashed like daggers, a duel fit for the masters. Again and again they flew at each other and attacked, sometimes right-side up and sometimes upside down. Even while fighting, they displayed exceptional athleticism, grace, and beauty.
The fierce attack did not last long, and I have no idea who won, or if the presumed lady Tern was impressed. I didn’t witness any feather attacks or body damage, which I thought showed great restraint and respect for the essentials.
After peace returned, males resumed fishing for food and courtship. Silvery herring, long, skinny sand lance, and tiny salmon-type fry circled round and round as the proud suitors showed them off. Somehow, they broadcast the happy news with their bills firmly clamped down on their surprised prizes.
What a joy to witness these marvelous avian wonders!
Happy Birding!
Carol Griswold
Seward Sporadic Bird Report Reporter
T
No comments:
Post a Comment