In case you missed the previous post, when last we left our bee-eating bird, he was bathing in the fountain when something caught his attention.
Turns out, it was a female Summer Tanager, swooping in to join him!
At first, I couldn’t tell if these two were flirting or fighting, but I just kept snapping pictures hoping to capture some shots I’d be able to share with ya’ll.
When I loaded the pictures onto the computer and looked at them more closely, it was clear that all their behaviors were displays of affection, not aggression!
The beak nibbling…
…and the feather fanning, were in no way adversarial. It was so incredibly fascinating to watch.
This next photo was probably my favorite.
The pair kept at it for quite some time, going back and forth, taking turns initiating the beak nibbling.
Eventually, he flew off out of sight…
…but she must have decided that he was quite a catch because she immediately followed right after him!
And now, for a funny story. Right after I finished taking these photos, a friend texted and asked what I was doing. I told her that I was out taking pictures of tanagers that were either flirting or fighting. But she misread “tanagers” as “teenagers” and was momentarily quite confused!!! But have no fear, I have not been out snapping shots of amorous teenagers!
Thanks for sharing this story. It was so nice to follow!🥰 Great captures too!
I’m so glad you enjoyed it!
These are WONDERFUL! Id have been quietly squealing. Thank you so much for sharing! I’m going back to rebook at them again.
I wish you could have seen it in person. And yes, I alternated between holding my breath and quietly squealing!
😂😂😂
😀
How amazing to witness! Wonderful photos 👏
It really was so much fun!
That’s awesome.
Thanks…and thanks for stopping in!
Great series of photos!
Thanks!
What a TREAT! This must have been so exciting to watch and sort through all the photos!! And write a cute Halloweenie thriller. ❤️ Love this beak nibbling show!!!
And your funny story at the end has us all laughing!
I so much look forward to seeing your posts. Thank you so much for sharing. 😊
It is my absolute pleasure to share the posts. It doubles my joy!
Love the photos and you capturing the flirting and beak nibbling. Bird behavior is so much fun to watch!
Who needs Netflix, right??
Ha! Very true!
Great photos of some “Teenagers” haha
Glad you enjoyed!
How lovely ☺️ Amazing photos Kathy!
Thank you! Wish you could have seen the interaction in person. 😊