This Black Oystercatcher (Haematopus bachmani) really is pretty tough - you've got to be if you're going to make your living eating shellfish and you've got no hands. I took these photos near noon so the morning feeding session was pretty much over and this bird was settling down to do some preening. Otherwise I would have captured some video of how dexterously they unfasten limpets from their rocky beds and pick the meat out of the shells with those big red beaks.
Excellent photos. That colourful beak really stands out.
ReplyDeleteGreat shots, I agree with the comment on the beak,the color just pops.
ReplyDeleteHe does look tough. And, my, what big feet he has! Nice captures.
ReplyDeleteLove his beak colour!
ReplyDeleteTerrific shots! He looks fierce!
ReplyDelete