My Ninja and I have been studying birds for the past few weeks. Penguins, ostriches, hornbills, and the like. We have chuckled over "dating and mating" rituals that involve a great deal of primping, strutting, and all-around showing off, on the part of the male. While there are species that offer food as a invitation to mate (the Kingfisher) or offer up a delightful croon to woo their potential Mrs. (the Pigeon), it is the Bowerbird that brings much delightful hilarity to our Science lessons.
In order to attract a mate, the male Satin Bowerbird, builds a bower (a platform or stage) and decorates it with colorful and shiny objects--flowers, pebbles, and even bottle caps. The male then calls to the female and the "hey-baby-wanna-be-my-girl?" dance begins.
I'm glad I'm not a gull. The male coughs up some food for his would-be bride to eat. Literally. I much prefer a candle-lit dinner for two, without "pre-owned" vittles.
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