Strange Great Egret behaviour

luckydog

Okay, firstly my apologies for being absent from DGRIN for sooo long.

This is an Australian Great Egret (which may explain the blokey behaviour). I observed this guy fishing and sat to watch to wait for a photo op in case he caught anything, when he stopped for a minute and started what appeared to be dry retching. Then a funny noise and out hacks this big lump of clear, viscious fluid. It was very thick and stretched all the way to the water before dislodging. After the episode he returnd to his fishing. I am not sure what is happening and have several experts on the case. Does anyone know? Has anyone seen this before?

Harryb

I've seen it before a number of times. Sometimes its after eating and they swallowed somethin they coudl not digest. I have also seen tehm do it after preening themselves.

luckydog

I was thinking it was something to do with undigestible oils or fats from their prey. Just like owls regurgitate pellets.

Thanks Harry.

I will pass on your observations to the guys researching this and If/when I hear what the exact scientific reason is, i'll be sure to let you know

bfjr

Upchucking (cause I can't spell the other one) is common among almost all birds.

I'm not expert enough to explain in detail.

In my last Post "Stealthy" 3 image is Egret doing same.

Good catch on your part

luckydog

I have just received an e-mail about this behaviour from the Australian Museum. They believe that...

"the Egret has eaten something unpleasant, possibly poisonous, venomous or stinging. The Egret will then produce large quantities of saliva to help get rid of the responsible substance from its system."

So it's the birdy version of sticking a couple of fingers down your throat

stevehapp

Hello Lucky!!!111!!!

hTr

I've seen the Behavior in many Birds, Raptors are probably the Most Frequent!!!