article thumbnail

Evolution of the Multi-Media Bird

10,000 Birds

That for the latter nature went on without them, letting them observe, seems to be proved by the fact that there doesn’t seem to be a big difference in your chance of getting wounded by a small to medium forest mammal if you are hunting them or if you are gathering plant products.

Birds 168
article thumbnail

Striding Snake-killers

10,000 Birds

The quills of the “Saqu Ettair” Secretarybirds feed on small lizards, insects, rodents, birds eggs and, of course, snakes. They typically dispatch a snake by stomping on it with their heavily armored legs and feet, accurately directing their rear talons at the skull to effect a swift mortal wound to the head.

Botswana 217