Although it is often said that Starlings murmurate to confuse predators - I'm not sure. My phone has enhanced the amount of light a bit in this clip - there wouldn't be many birds like Peregrines hunting at this time of day.

I think that part of it is the sheer 'enjoyment' the birds get from gathering and interacting socially like this - not everything has to be about finding food and raising young.

Apparently they reserve their 'special' and long murmurations for the right evening, after a week of gloomy weather I think this was that one.

Apologies for the distracting soundtrack - a combination of the waves crashing on the shore and my heavy breathing after speed walking with all my gear to get a bit closer.

I have seen a few of these before, but not with a clear sky behind to let me fully appreciate the amazing fluid motion.

They murmurate over their roost site. Walking past it once the birds had dropped down the sound of excited chattering was so loud. I wonder if they were congratulating each other on an epic performance!

Tags:   Starling murmuration

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When they display, you get a much better idea of why the Keel-billed Toucan has developed such a colourful large bill.

Prospective mates - and other rival males can't fail to notice and hear the display done from a prominent perch.

As well as display and feeding the bill has a network of blood vessels that allow the bird to get rid of excess body heat.

Filmed in the Caribbean Lowlands of Costa Rica.

Tags:   Keel-billed Toucan display video Costa Rica Caribbean Lowlands

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Filmed last May. He / she dives for prey at the end of the clip.

The Norfolk Fens.

Tags:   Barn Owl hunting sequence Slo-Mo Fen Norfolk flight In

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Slo-mo footage of the very hard working male Kingfisher subduing a freshly caught (and pretty large) Perch, before turning it round ready to present head first to one of the youngsters.

Tags:   Alcedo Atthis Common Kingfisher preparing fish for juveniles

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This male common Kingfisher is working very hard to feed his youngsters, at least 2 fledged but demanding fish and probably a 3rd brood at the nest.

Taken late yesterday evening after a fish supper and a series of baths.

Tags:   common Kingfisher Alcedo Atthis Preening

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