Although the photo might suggest one bird is feeding the other, these Himalayan bulbuls (Pycnonotus leucogenys) in fact appeared to be disputing the ownership of the seed. It's easy to misinterpret the behaviour of birds (and other animals — including, and perhaps especially(!), humans). I try to avoid jumping to conclusions about what's happening; generally, I see no harm in simply watching, enjoying, and wondering.
All content © 2008 Pete McGregor
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5 comments:
No way does this look like one is feeding the other -- for starters, their hairdos immediately suggest a scene out of West Side Story.
Great dynamic shot! Love it.
P.S., Pete, have you had a look at these? http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/photo-contest/2008-winners
I agree with Emma. My first impression was that the bird on the right was feeling pretty cross. You've captured the moment wonderfully.
A moment of wonderful intimacy, no matter what the basis.
How wise to wait and see, especially with humans!
Emma, thanks for the NatGeo link. I'd seen the 2007 photos, but not the 2008 results. Some great stuff there; some seem a little arbitrary, but others are stunners.
Thanks Lesley. My memory of the event is hazy now, but I think the one with the seed flew off shortly after I photographed them.
RR, waiting and seeing's generally safer with non-human animals... ;^)
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