Whistling Thunderclap
One of evolution's mysteries.
This little bird has developed a unique way of warding off predators.
Only during mating season, when pairs of birds fly through forest in their unique up and down swooping pattern, their whistling call also swoops up and down, making them quite entertaining to come across in the field. They sound a little like high pitched imitations of police sirens.
If the birds feel threatened, or are startled during this flight, they explode, sounding like an M80 firecracker.
The Whistling Thunderclap.
A rare bird on the ultra-endangered species list.
10 responses
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John Rocklin said (29 Oct 2009):
great shot, thanks for the fascinating byline also.
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Susan Littlefield gave props (29 Oct 2009):
Endangered? I had no idea; I keep a birdhouse full of them for warding off intruders, plus they're a hit at the 4th of July parade here! I'll try to be more mindful of their precarious situation; I don't have that many intruders anyway.
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Lesley S gave props (29 Oct 2009):
They explode???!!! Yikes. Great shot of this little guy.
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Dawn Duffield (Deleted) gave props (29 Oct 2009):
Ah, Yoda...I see the kryptonite which once held you at bay, has now bid farewell!
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Dawn Duffield (Deleted) said (29 Oct 2009):
Why is it they are ultra-endangured?
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Rob Case gave props (29 Oct 2009):
As always, your picture is well composed and accompanied with enlightening info. The colors of the surrounding forest work well (BLAM!!!) together. One of those birds just went off during the writing of this prop....
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Regenia Brabham gave props (29 Oct 2009):
I love looking at your work. They are beautiful to look at and your descriptions keep me laughing. A wonderful combination!! This one is no exception.
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Laurie Brown gave props (30 Oct 2009):
Beautiful. Thanks for telling us about them
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Ted Opderbeck gave props (30 Oct 2009):
Looks like a determined little fella. Love the beautiful blur of autumnal bliss in the background. Well composed
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Charles gave props (1 Nov 2009):
Another beauty Kevin. Your blind is really working out well.
