The Ugly "Duckling" Gets Elegant.
For a month or more, I've been watching a young Blue Jay that frequents my bird feeders; talk about an "ugly duckling" (if you know that story)
" The Ugly Duckling " ( Danish : Den grimme lling ) is a literary fairy tale by Danish poet and author Hans Christian Andersen (1805 1875). The story tells of a homely little bird born in a barnyard who suffers abuse from the others around him until, much to his delight (and to the surprise of others), he matures into a beautiful swan, the most beautiful bird of all. The story is beloved around the world as a tale about personal transformation for the better. The Ugly Duckling was first published 11 November 1843 with three other tales by Andersen in Copenhagen, Denmark to great critical acclaim. The tale has been adapted to various media including opera, musical, and animated film. The tale is completely Andersen's invention and owes no debt to fairy or folklore.
I could tell in words how the young Blue Jay has developed, but, let me do it in pictures.
Three to four weeks ago.
Somewhat more recently.
Notice the crest.
The onset of elegance.
Today.
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And the beak goes on so-to-speak.
Mr. Jayturned the other beak. I couldn't resist.
Are each of these shots the same bird?
What a great series of the bluejay Mac. Loved it.
Same bird (as far as I know) -- I'm pretty certain.
As for the beak thing was that part of a flight of ideas were you winging it?
I was winging it, but I'm sorry to say, it was a singular cat call.
The singular Jay progression makes this an exhibition of beauty and patience. Well done.
He's beautiful! All of us have to go through an "ugly" stage. Glad his was so short!
I love Blue Jays, they seem to have an air about them. Thanks for letting us watch him mature along with you.
Wonderful shot as always.
He/she has definitely matured into a very beautiful bird.
Interesting how they [birds] are different from so many other animal species that are so 'cute' as a baby, but sometimes...not so much as an adult.
Baby birds are so pitiful looking. Most birds turn into very elegant adults. Some don't, they are always sort of pitiful looking. But I love all birds so that's ok.
Great job A-Mac!