Great Egret Sharpening Beak @ Gatorland

[Marina Scarr]

Saw this gorgeous GW in breeding colors actually sharpening his beak on this post, one side then the other, several times over. I have lived in Florida for years and had never seen this behavior until now. Was wondering if anyone knew whether this was common behavior?

BTW, even though it's not full season yet, the opportunities at Gatorland are numerous.

[Isaac Green]

Not sure about egrets, but it is common in vultures and raptors. It is one of those personal grooming behaviors you usually only see when the bird is at ease.

Great capture of the behavior. Love the detail in the bird and post. I'd be tempted to darken the background a hair.

[Doug Hitchcox]

Maybe just cleaning it off? I see feeder birds do this all the time to clean off their bills.

[Ákos Lumnitzer]

I wouldn't know if they sharpen their bills or not this way. I'll e-mail you some contact details.
:)