Upside down male Brown-headed Cowbird
Some of the bird photos I take are disasters but the behaviors they can show are fascinating to me so I keep them any way. This photo of a displaying male Brown-headed Cowbird in a goofy upside down pose is not a good photo technically but I absolutely love the behavior it shows.
There weren’t any female Brown-headed Cowbirds that I could see in the area of the marsh at Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge when I took this image. I could only see about 4 to 5 other male in close proximity to this male so I don’t believe this crazy pose was done to attract a mate. I also don’t think it was done to intimidate the nearby males and I am not sure at all why the cowbird got into this position.
What I do know for certain is that this was a hard photo for me to take because I tried so hard not to laugh and I failed. My laughter jiggled my gear and I got several images of the cowbird that were a blurry mess, this one though is sharp enough. The light angle was awful too but I can’t help but giggle when I see this photo and that is enough of a reason for me to keep and to share it. I hope it causes someone else to laugh too.
Life is good and so is laughter.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Brown-headed Cowbird photos plus facts and information about this species.
This hilarious. “Hey babe, wanna see how many push-ups I can do?” Then I saw her reaction, which made me laugh some more. Thanks, Mia.
Funny and interesting at the same time. If it’s not a mating ritual…then he must have had too many martini’s. Thanks Mia.
He needs a new gyroscope. 😉 Thanks for a good giggle today!
I am in awe at his skill. Attempting a pose like that would result in a face plant for me. Very quickly.
Thank you for the early morning smile.
Such a fun shot! 😄
A fascinating , most unusual shot!!! Gkad you were able to capture it…(I love the unusual shots, like this one)….
See! I can do a handstand! Bet you can’t. Gotta love it!
I just love it. Maybe it was looking to see what was under & behind the branch.
Amusing