An apparent sad end...

Photo by BarrytheBirder

Crippled Great Blue Heron

I spotted this Great Blue Heron in a dirt field, on the edge of Ravenshoe Sideroad, on Monday of this week.   From a distance it looked to be too short for a 'Great Blue'.  When I enlarged the photo, the bird appeared to be standing on its knees.   The bottom portions of its legs were bent forward and and the bird was not moving at all.   It seems an accident had taken place and it was no longer able to stand naturally.  Unfortunately, the bird seemed unable to move on its lower legs at all and was reluctant to fly also.  I was left with a sad and somewhat helpless feeling about its fate before moving on.

Please comment if you wish.

BarrytheBirder