Wearing Goggles

When the peregrine chicks were tiny, Dorothy used to “chup” at them to get them to open their mouths.  There’s no need to encourage them now!  They crowd her at feeding time and whine and chup on their own.  And they actively grab the food she’s offering.

In this action shot, notice that Dorothy’s right eye looks almost closed.  During feeding time she covers her eyes with her nictitating membranes so a random peck from their sharp beaks won’t ruin her eyesight.  It’s an important safety mechanism.

Dorothy’s wearing goggles.

(photo from the National Aviary falconcam at the Univ of Pittsburgh)

One thought on “Wearing Goggles

  1. It is always reassuring that Dorothy is so consistent with her “housekeeping”. Makes me feel so superior because I do not have feathers in my living room!!!! Happy Day everyone. Faith Cornell

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