OK. I admit these guys are ugly. But I post lots of photos of iguanas, and some of them are ugly, too. So, I don't think I should discriminate against ugly birds.During a morning drive near Nicoya, which is southeast of Tamarindo, I pulled over onto the shoulder of the road and took this photo of vultures spreading their wings to dry them in the morning sun. In additon to these birds on the fence posts, there was another group of them filling the branches of a nearby tree.
Costa Rica is described in one of my guide books as "nirvana for bird watchers." I am sure that the birders who travel to Costa Rica come for our unparalleled variety of species (more than the USA and Canada combined), but not for the vultures.
This week on our Viva la Voyage travel photo site we are showing pictures of the Maasi and Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania. I think you will find them of interest.
They may be ugly but are essential to the balance of nature. African vultures are much uglier than these! :-)
ReplyDeleteMama Vulture might beg to differ regarding the relative beauty (or lack there of) of her little nestlings.
ReplyDeleteYou must admit, those feathers are quite attractive.
ReplyDeletedo not worry all should be looked at is beautiful that bad!!
ReplyDeletea very interesting image
ReplyDeleteNot too ugly. I saw a turkey vulture in the road one day eating lunch. That one was pretty ugly. This one seems to be rather proud of itself.
ReplyDeleteI love to see the vultures floating in the air with wings spread wide. Where would we be without these birds out there doing their job as clean up crew.
ReplyDeleteI think they are amazing creatures! I have seen a few turkey vultures in my neighborhood on occasion, usually feeding on some roadkill.
ReplyDeleteThey look very much like our Florida vultures...we have some with black heads and some with red heads. And as JM mentioned, they are essential birds!
ReplyDeleteBy the way, you hit it right on the head with your comment on Ocala DP...there was another kid on the other side of the tree making his way to where this one was sitting!
This is an interesting shot. You said they were drying their wings. Had they been in the water? I have 3 bird baths in my yard and the birds do spread their wings to dry after a sip.
ReplyDeleteWell... we need a bit of everything to get the world right.
ReplyDeleteI had to laugh at your brother's tribulations, I'm glad he liked Versailles!
hello! beautiful photo i see on your blog!! congratulations
ReplyDelete