Adaptation

Evolution and adaptation are amazing things. Over many generation animals must change to survive and this unique species of bird is no exception.

The African spoonbill (Platalea alba) is a long-legged wading bird of the ibis and spoonbill family. The species is widespread across Africa and Madagascar, including Botswana, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.

These birds live in marshy wetlands, nesting on colonies near shallow water or trees. The African spoonbill feeds in shallow water, and fishes for various fish, molluscs, amphibians, crustaceans, insects and larvae. The animal uses its open bill to catch foods by swinging it from side-to-side in the water, which catches foods in its mouth. Long legs and thin, pointed toes enable it to walk easily through varying depths of water.

The African spoonbill is almost unmistakable through most of its range. The breeding bird is all white except for its red legs and face and long grey spatulate bill.

Thanks for reading.

Scott

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