• BirdForum is the net's largest birding community dedicated to wild birds and birding, and is absolutely FREE!

    Register for an account to take part in lively discussions in the forum, post your pictures in the gallery and more.
Immature Scott's Oriole with beak deformity
bajadreamer

Immature Scott's Oriole with beak deformity

This immature bird was seen in late May near Rancho Verde in Baja CA Sur. I would think the beak deformity/growth would be a serious problem for this bird greatly limiting his ability to gather nectar from deep within flowers, etc.
Habitat
Heavy mesquite scrub forest
Location
Rancho Verde, Baja CA Sur
Date taken
May 27. 2016
Equipment used
Canon 7D Mark II with 400 mm 5.6 lens
Staff member
Opus Editor
Supporter
I wonder if that is a tick on its beak.

Such a beautiful bird and captured beautifully. I hope whatever it is does not hamper its sipping.
 
No it is not something "on" the bill. I have several other views and it is part of the beak.
I originally thought it was something that was "stuck" on the bill, but alas, not so.
Scott's Orioles are among my favorite birds in our area, so I am bummed about this one. He is in a relatively isolated "oasis" so he probably will stick around there. I am going to monitor him through the summer.
 
Supporter
Too bad about its beak but I bet it manages fine. Great pose in excellent lighting showing marvelous detail and color. TFS Bajadreamer!!!
 
Thank you for the kind comments on the picture. This bird felt good enough to respond to an owl call. He was pretty aggressive to the call. I watch orioles feed at my feeders all day long and this one would not be able to get his beak in far enough to feed effectively. I will monitor him through the summer.
 
Birds are intelligent and adaptable. Lets hope this one can work around this disadvantage. Great shot though. Will keep my eyes peeled for more about this bird as you post them.
 
Jim, I see you has some success at rancho verde. Glad your enjoying your hobby. I only have 1 bird pix...time is limited. Love you D
 

Media information

Category
Central & South America & Mexico
Added by
bajadreamer
Date added
View count
49
Comment count
7

Share this media

Top