Monday 29 March 2010

Beaks & Bills...

Charles Darwin noted that bird beaks (or bills) have evolved to suit the ecological niche they fill. This has resulted in a great variety of different shapes and colours. Use of the term beak or bill seems to be associated with some confusion! Using some watercolour pencils I attempted to draw a few birdies.
The Arctic Tern, a strong seabird with a dark red beak, which dips down to the surface of the water to catch prey close to the surface.
The Common Teal, a dabbling duck which feeds on the surface without diving.
And the beautiful Kingfisher, with its long pointed bill for swooping to to water to get its prey.

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