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Darter beak

from [Wallaces] [Permanent Link][Original]
To: Canberra birds <>
Subject: Darter beak
From: Wallaces <>
Date: Wed, 19 Oct 2016 06:45:37 +0000

The beak of the darter looks smooth but while watching a video I took today of an immature bird I noticed that both the upper and lower mandibles have backward facing serrations. I have always wondered why darters spear fish with their beak open but the serrations may help to explain this as they would help hold the prey. Others may be aware of this but this is the first time I have noticed the serrations. (Photo of the closed beak and the insert showing the serrations taken from the video).

 

Steve

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Description: Darter beak and detail 2016-10-19_091919.jpg

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