The Maestro
Looking like the Maestro conducting an orchestra, this Blue-winged Teal actually was facing off with a Coot that was harassing him.
Many birds spread their wings in this manner to dry them. However, I have observed this behavior in many bird species as a show of dominance, when facing a competitor, immediately after a mating, when confronting a foe, or when feeling threatened.
The Maestro
Looking like the Maestro conducting an orchestra, this Blue-winged Teal actually was facing off with a Coot that was harassing him.
Many birds spread their wings in this manner to dry them. However, I have observed this behavior in many bird species as a show of dominance, when facing a competitor, immediately after a mating, when confronting a foe, or when feeling threatened.