Perhaps you have probably seen movies of the courtship water dance of the Western Grebe. The Pied-billed Grebe has a similar dance along the water. It seems less dramatic, but that is probably a factor of size. This breeding adult was 1) trying to impressive and get the attention of a female, not yet into breeding attire, or 2) trying to intimidate a rival male, not yet into breeding attire, that this part of the marsh was his. Whatever, he did it with great energy ...
Whatever exactly was involved, when it was all over ... well, it was a ruffling experience ...
Good birding!
Hahaha!
ReplyDeleteHe looks like a New Zealand Kiwi bird, all shuffled up!!
Wonderful pictures, Chris!
When I see picture like these, makes me want to get a decent equipment fast!
But I still have to wait!
Tomorrow I have Storks programmed, and more birds in the following days, but nothing compares to the quality of your shots! :)!
Cheers!
Those were great shots Chris!
ReplyDeleteWe were there a couple of years ago and I was amazed at how close they came to us.
Great post. I saw my first one of the year at Mud Lake. Lots of migrants passing through right now.
ReplyDeleteGood birding.
Great shots of great birds! I liked your narrative, too.
ReplyDeleteKay