Birds and Nature

Yesterday I took advantage of a 'cool' front that dropped the temperatures in Otero County from around 100 to the 80's. I returned to look for the Long-billed Curlew pair that I found last year with several chicks. I found the male and female in the lower pics only about a half mile from where I had seen the pair last year so believe this is the same pair. Actually the grass in the field where I saw them the most last year was in poor condition--there is a severe drought in that area plus it appears the ranchers overgrazed those fields (grass fields right across the road were short but healthy looking). Long-billed Curlews are known for nest site fidelity but I suspect the poor condition of the fields they were in last year prompted a move down the road. The chick shown in the top pic is quite young, actually a nestling but since this species is precocial . More pics to follow. SeEtta

In this video clip the younger chick in the Long-billed Curlew family in northern Otero County, CO is seen with the adult male standing behind (and watching vigilantly). This clip shows the chick trying to cool off in the upper 80's temps, which are the movements around the throat area as it 'vibrates the muscles and bones in it's throat', a technique called 'gular fluttering' . Young birds do not have well developed thermoregulatory function so have to supplement with techniques like this. After loafing for a bit, the chick does some grooming and then some stretching. SeEtta

This is a pretty short but interesting video clip showing the adult male Long-billed Curlew, that had flown to a new foraging spot, flying back in and is seen landing. There is a good view of his plumage as he lands. Though the wind is seen blowing the grasses in this (as well as the other video clips), some heat waves can be seen in the background. Still more videos to come. SeEtta