RE: Thornbill Gymnastics

[WM James Davis <>]

On Mon, 30 Jun 1997, Osborn, Paul PR wrote:

> I have frequently observed Yellow-rumped Thornbills exhibiting this
> behaviour. At our place (Cooranbong, NSW) they do this only when
> breeding and only in the vicinity of the nest. I have always thought it
> to be a distraction display akin to the 'broken wing' behaviour of some
> other species. They perform this behaviour on our fence and I find it
> quite endearing to see these little birds hanging upside down and
> swinging freely, often accompanied by their very pretty little song.
> 
I concur with this interpretation.  In europe the Great Tit is also known
to behave in a similar manner when threaten although the behaviour is
rare.  I would like to see a photograph.

Cheers, Jim Davis