Feathered Mothers: Dedicated and Resourceful

Bird mothers display remarkable dedication, using clever strategies to protect and nurture their young.  Let’s look at some of the fascinating ways they care for their chicks.

Merganser ducks often lay their eggs in the nests of other ducks and are known for adopting extra ducklings, sometimes leading over 60 in a “creche”.

Eurasian hoopoes coat their nests with a smelly secretion that deters predators and has antibacterial properties to keep their chicks healthy.

Mallard mothers imprint on their ducklings early.  During this “sensitive period”, ducklings form a lasting bond, identifying their mother and siblings as those to follow.

Gentoo penguins share parenting duties, with mothers taking turns braving the icy waters to hunt while the other keeps the chick warm.

Owls are fierce protectors when the owlets are cared for by their mother, who keeps them close in the nest for warmth and safety while the male hunts and gathers food.

Flamingo mothers produce a red, nutrient-rich crop milk, feeding their chicks until they grow their pink feathers.

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