American avocet, Wind Cave National Park, 2015.
Summary
This American avocet (Recurvirostra americana) is wandering around the pond on Bison Flats, just south of the park's visitor center. In spring, American avocets have this striking, rusty-orange breeding plumage. This species lays light green speckled eggs right on the shore of the wetlands, with little to no nest material around the eggs. However, this simple nesting habit doesn't mean parents don't care for their eggs or offspring. Both avocet parents help rear the young. The father's job is to chase away other birds and animals from his family as they venture out into the world. Adult avocets will defend eggs and chicks with surprising ferocity, dive-bombing and loudly calling against intruders.
Tags
Date
2015
Source
National Parks Gallery
Copyright info
Public Domain Dedication