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Thread: Rhynchokinesis or Damaged Beak?

  1. #1
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    Default Rhynchokinesis or Damaged Beak?

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    I got several images of this Red-breasted Merganser showing the bill tip to be open. I think it looks like it might be damaged. I did some reading and find that most birds that use Rhynchokineses are long-billed shorebirds.

    If this is damage what are the propects for the bird's chances of survival? I would think the beak would let in water if it isn't able to be closed.

    Any comments?

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    It looks pretty healthy to me so I would think the chances of survival are good.

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    I would say it's fine. Ducks can do this and I've seen hummingbirds do it as well.

  4. #4
    George Scott
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    Interesting thread - last year in AZ I was amazed to see this black chinned hummer with a beak deformity, but there was no doubt that this bird seemed as healthy, vibrant and as feisty as the others in the area. Obviously they are more tolerant than we imagine

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