Avocet: Opener bird. Why does their beak stick up? (7 photos)

What about beauty standards? Fashion does not think about convenience or practicality, because “beauty requires sacrifice.” The unusually beautiful birds, avocets, do not agree with this statement. They use their exclusive twitter exclusively to make life easier.





The opener bird lives in central Eurasia and a little in Africa. Those who are lucky enough to be born on the Dark Continent sit on their paws all year round. But those who are registered a little further north have to travel south every year.



The black and white color and size of a large pigeon do not really distinguish our heroine from other birds. But, believe me, you will immediately recognize the bird among other waterfowl. If someone has a stitch in one place, then our heroine has it on her face. The beak curved upward can reach up to 9 cm.





You look at this miracle, but there are a lot of questions in your head: how? For what? For what? In fact, the avocet's beak is perfect for hunting! The bird uses its sensitive, curved beak as a radar, probing the bottom. And she is looking for small arthropods, larvae, snails and other invertebrate Pokemon.



Didn't find anything near the shore? Dive! Despite the long, skinny legs (what else should models have?) the avocet is an excellent swimmer. And thanks to the membranes of birds, the sprinter organizes races through swamps and muddy soil. Moreover, the bird’s legs are also not simple, but... blue.



The legs become especially bright during the breeding season.

With such a combination - a sharp beak and long legs - it is better not to anger the avocets unless you want to get an awl in the eye. And don’t think that since there haven’t been any attacks yet, there’s nothing to be afraid of - these birds behave like mad, defending their nests. Speaking of offspring, true avocets are not born, but made. Chicks have a straight beak that curves as they grow.



Ride each other.

The period of creation of new avocets lasts from April to May - it all depends on the region. Despite their penchant for high fashion, the world of glamor has not corrupted the birds - they are diligent monogamists. Together the couple builds a nest of stones and moss and raises four chicks. The dust bunnies will leave their parents a month after hatching.



Don’t be alarmed, the avocet simply warms its chicks under its wing.

The Avocet is a living example of how an extravagant appearance is an effective solution to a completely everyday problem. I wonder if this principle will work for people?