The birds must be getting a bit desperate as this long cold snap shows little sign of abating. This Moorhen (Gallinula chloropus) on the canal seemed to be trying to chip through the ice to the water below. The photo shows very clearly the bird's curious feet, with its long toes, well adapted to walking on soft uneven surfaces. They do swim but they mostly inhabit the vegetated margins of lakes and rivers. Resident in the UK, they eat water plants, seeds, fruit, grasses, insects, snails and worms - most of which must be in short supply in this weather.
It's hard on the birds this time of year.
ReplyDeleteIts feet are so big for him!It's time of the year when to put food in gardens and on balconies to help the birds to survive!
ReplyDeleteThis kind of weather is hard for all wildlife.
ReplyDeleteCostas
hee hee...
ReplyDeleteBirds are a popular theme today. You show one, «Louis» is showing one. France is showing one also.
«Louis» is having a problem with Blogger dropping the photo from yesterday's post. This is the third time he has had to re-publish it. Try it again here
Poor little thing! I hope people feed and water them in desperate conditions like this. We just bought a 50 pound bag of black sunflower seeds and another couple bags of various smaller seeds for our birds here - for everything will be covered in snow until mid March.
ReplyDeleteHe looks hungry. I'm so grateful I don't have to find my food this way!!!!
ReplyDeleteSo, he didn't want to migrate south this year? Someone sweet will probably sprinkle some seed in the area for him.
ReplyDeleteWonderful photo! He really stands out in the snow.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful picture! I love the contrast and the footprints!
ReplyDeleteThey are common in my area of California as well but fortunately for them the water here is not frozen.
ReplyDeleteA lovely capture, Jenny. I do feel sorry for the moorhen, though, but I guess they must be programmed to survive these harsh conditions?
ReplyDeleteWhat a fantastic bird and great capture! Love it.
ReplyDeleteWish you a Happy New Year, Jenny.
I like this with the footprints and color. Happy new year!
ReplyDeleteThat is a fantastic shot! I always feel so badly for all the sweet little creatures during harsh weather. ~Lili
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