Adrian Foster alerted me a few weeks ago to the fact that the Diver flattens the bump on its forehead, just before it dives. It's quite obvious as you watch it. I presume it's streamlining itself as it does it in preperation for the dive therefore I presume it is feathers that are lowered and not 'a bulbous knob' on the forehead which I always thought it had. I (and Adian I'm sure) would be interested in hearing of any scientific reason for this. any takers?
It's an amazing experience watching the bird feed - at times you can hear it crunch the crab's shell. It also seems to dive with the crab in its beak - anyone know why does it do this?
If these are the quality fo Martin's picures, I can't wait to see the ones of the Kumlein's Gull!
hi guys
ReplyDeleteGreat spending time with you. Nice one Adrian- I noticed the bump thing too and managed to capture it on video- on blog post here
www.birdingfrontiers.com
must try and get back soon!
Some superb pics on Martin's site above. Also great video footage from Adrain Foster here - http://youtu.be/vhZhyj6to0I.
ReplyDeleteOne interesting obeservation that was discussed at the Scoter twitch this morning was the fact that the Diver is now taking 6-7 attempts to catch a crab, where as when it first arrived it was catching one every 1-2 attempts. I woner if he's slowly guzzling his way through the Shore Crab population in the lake?
Unfortunately the lake will be drained in a few weeks time, so if you haven't been to see it yet - don't leave it too late.