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Posted by Robin Diaz on 14:37:38 01/22/08
While in St. Marks NWR yesterday, Linda, Maria and I noticed a Hermit Thrush feeding in an unusual manner. It stayed in a rain puddle for ~10 minutes (even though it was 30 degrees!) feeding with deliberate and precise movements. The water came up to the vent area but we could see it moving one leg, then the other, up and down with quick motions. It watched the water intently while moving its leg, plover-style. After ~5 seconds it would stop, pick 3-4 items (insects?) from the surface of the water, move a few inches and repeat the sequence. The ripples can be seen in the photo. It clearly recognized cause and effect while standing in the water. Interesting behavior from a bird that earns its living by flipping leaf litter.
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