When I was out walking the other day, I could hear a number of Long-tailed Tits in the trees above me.
I noticed one (see below) that was searching for food under bark and lichen.
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Then I could see another one that had been successful and had caught a large green caterpillar.
(at a guess, probably a Meadow Brown caterpillar)
It was quite a big caterpillar compared to the size of the bird, but the bird was using his perch on which to beat the ill-fated larva.
I don't know the outcome to this story unfortunately, but I didn't fancy the caterpillar's chances.
Looking on from a secluded spot was a female Blackcap.
Hi Roy That is a lovely series of shots an story. Very well shot as these little birds are hard to catch (for me) It is one of my favorite small UK birds to see. Loved the Blackcap hiding.
ReplyDeleteThanks Margaret, yes one of my favourites as well.
DeleteThis is a story, told by you and your pictures. The caterpillar indeed looks BIG but the Long-tailed tits are small as you wrote. It is funny to see and it made me smile. They are such funny and smart little birds.
ReplyDeleteRegards,
Marianne
Thanks Marianne.{:))
DeleteNice sequence Roy, that should have kept it going until lunch time! Going by the grumpy look on her face Mrs. Blackcap seems to be a bit miffed at missing out?...[;o)
ReplyDeleteThanks Trevor, yes she wasn't amused.{:))
Deletefabulous series; these are a beautiful little bird and good at finding their catches too
ReplyDeleteThanks Carole.
Deletehij heeft er een heerlijk maaltje aan.
ReplyDeleteDuren hem de hele dag Nic.
DeleteGreat series of behavioral shots Roy.
ReplyDeleteHey Roy.. Wow that's a big catch for a little fella, that surely filled him up for the day!!
ReplyDeleteGreat shot's of the event, especially like the trashing shot that worm didn't stand a chance : ))
Grace
Ps... Nice spread of cows on the header!!
Thanks GG.{:))
DeleteEeek! Poor thing, being beaten up like that, but probably nicer than swallowed alive.
ReplyDeleteYes I suppose so Helena.{:))
DeleteHi Roy
ReplyDeleteQuite the series of action shots.
Guy
Thanks Guy.
DeleteAmazing photos-I didn't realise that caterpillars get that sort of treatment before they are eaten.
ReplyDeleteThanks D. Not such sweet little birds as you thought.{:))
DeleteThe long-tailed tit is a vogetlje sie I would shoot Roy. Love Whole motile animals but you have him very attractive to plates.
ReplyDeleteWhat great shots! That is certainly a big caterpillar for such a little bird.
ReplyDeleteThanks Mary. Almost half the birds weight.{:))
Delete