Anhingas feed their chicks a little differently than the herons and egrets and it’s a little weird the first time you see it: the young stick their beaks down the adult’s throat to get the regurgitated food.
Like the herons, the young Anhinga will pull on the adults beak to start the feeding process. This adult had four young in the nest and the pushiest gets the most food.
Below you can see the featherless necks of the chicks and how the pouch at the corner of their jaw. It appears the one on the left is bleeding from a scratch–small wonder with all those sharp beaks.
I had changed positions trying to get a better view but they all kept dipping down below the branches.
04/20/2018
A bit strange but interesting to witness!
It goes right along with the gawky look of those young chicks.
Fascinating to see. Great captures, Ellen.
I’m constantly amazed by nature. Thanks, Jane!
Magnificent series, Ellen! And, ouch, on the scratches.
Thanks, Donna. I guess that was bound to happen and given how thin their skin looks its surprising there wasn’t more blood.
Wow!!! Amazing photos!
Thanks, Rebecca!