Bird Body Language

Most people see birds from a distance and for short durations; that's because nature has equipped birds with organs in their eyes called a "pecten" -- a pigmented vascular projection from the choroid in the eye of a bird. This makes bird vision quite efficient and sensitive when it comes to detecting motion -- someone or something moves even slightly in their surroundings -- they're gone! It is obviously an adaptation to seeing while in flight as well.

Because birds are thus "spooky," humans rarely get to see the nuances of their anatomy and behavior; birds do demonstrate "body language," a subject I've worked on capturing in photography.

For example:

Blue Jay has he heard something off to his left?

Same question as above.

Yes! You've ruffled my feathers and I don't even want to look at you; please leave. (Mourning Dove)

Grackle with an Attitude.

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