Snail Kite in the rain
The same drizzly morning that I saw my first Smooth-billed Ani, I also photographed my first Snail Kite! These birds have been hard to find in recent years, due to the diminishing Apple Snail population.
Another first!
Birder's Journey
"You must have birds in your heart before you can find them in the bushes." — John Burroughs (Journal of the Outdoor Life, v20, 1923, p. 137)
How interesting that a raptor would feed on snails as a peculiar food, though it is interesting that our Wedge-tailed Eagle is known to eat a greater volume of insects than any of our small purley insectivorous birds. Wildlife with peculiar dietary requirements presents a problem for many wildlife species, due to diminished habitat. We have the same problem here with our Regent Honeyeater and our White-tailed Black Cockatoo which are both critically endangered.
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Very interesting to learn these facts about some of your Australian birds, thanks for sharing, AB. Issues that are similar concerns globally.
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An amazing find on a rainy day. Even in the rain your photograph turned out fantastic. I believe it added to the image, giving it a mysterious effect.
I posted my barred owlets.
Connie
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I almost think my Kite looks like he’s standing in a flurry of snow :). I also like the raindrop effect. Tried to check my Reader yesterday, but we’re traveling and Internet service is limited. I’ll look again today for your owlets, Connie!
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Yes, I thought at first it was snow, but after reading your blog, I found out it was rain.
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The NPS article is a good one that shows the numerous factors that greatly influence this most unusual and beautiful flyer. Thank’s for the great “rain” shot, too, BJ!
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Yes, there is such a delicate balance in nature to keep these factors all working well so the Kites can thrive. I was told that there are special protective ‘cells’ in the marsh at our Refuge where they are raising native Apple Snail eggs.
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Fantastic photo BJ. I love snail kites, those curved bills are so cool.
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Yes, that super sharp curve in the bill is such a distinct, distinguishing characteristic. It was so exciting to see this Kite, and, happily, we saw him quite often after this first day.
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Congrats on another lifer! And what a find, well done!! He/she is gorgeous. 🙂
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Thank you, Donna! It was such a thrill to see him/her?!
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Congrats on your beautiful “lifer”!
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Thanks, Tiny! Always fun 🙂
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Wonderful image of a great bird.
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Thank you ~
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