A belt of pine trees extending for about one-half mile boarders the north edge of Chiclayo’s Las Muses Park. These days the tops of the pines are home to hundreds of nesting birds. Some are just building their nests while many others have laid eggs.
So far we haven’t been able to identify the species. They’re large birds…in size and shape resembling small penguins. Tail feathers are almost non-existent. There are two distinct color variations – one having black on the head and black wings; the other being a uniform tan. Both appear to have red eyes. Our theory at this point is that the tan is female, the other is male.
At the base of the trees are hundreds of eggs shells in various shades of blue. Scattered among the shells are dead fish and frogs; perhaps intended as food for hatchlings. The fish and frogs are probably coming from the Reque River, 8 miles south, or the Pacific Ocean, about 12 miles west. Either way it’s a significant flight.
I thought that given the characteristics – the large size and shape, red eyes and blue eggs it would be easy to identify the birds, but asking locals in the park and searching the internet has so far come up empty. It would be much appreciated if anyone who is familiar with these birds would post a comment.Tom
Contact Gunnar Engblom at his birding blog. http://www.kolibriexpeditions.com/birdingperu/blog/index.php/about/
ReplyDeleteHey Tom,
ReplyDeleteI don't know what kind of birds they are, but they're beautiful. I sent a message to ornithologist Gunnar Engblom (Kolibri Expeditions) to ask if he could identify them. I bet he'll know on the spot.
Slds.
Rick
Thanks Kelly and Rick...I also sent an email to Gunnar so we'll see what happens.
ReplyDeleteTom
Hi Tom.
ReplyDeleteThe birds are Black-crowned Night-Herons. Thanks Rick and Kelly for the thumbs-up! Herons are known to build large rookeries for nesting - and just plain gathering at night.
In Lima there has been similar invasions of Cattle Egret in urban areas. Many times the local citizens see them as a pest, and have them removed. Hopefully, the birds get to stay in Chiclayo.
There are some wetlands near Puerto Eten, maybe this is where they feed. Still a way off though.
Not if they take up residence next to Tom, he is a bit intolerant of neighbors.
DeleteMystery solved! Mucho gracias Gunnar.... and also to Kelly and Rick.
ReplyDeleteTom
I would have never thought of that as a heron, but probably should have with those dead frogs under there. It's been too long since I read my field guide!
ReplyDeleteThose are some big birds. It'll take more than a pea shooter to bring down one of those suckers.
ReplyDeleteAgreed…but that won’t stop me from trying should they attempt to relocate their roost to a roof top near my bedroom window :)
ReplyDelete