If you've never heard the call of a male Victoria's riflebird, imagine a cross between a sulphur-crested cockatoo and ... well ... another sulphur-crested cockatoo, but shorter and louder.
Two male riflebirds frequent my garden. I can't tell the difference between them, so have given them the generic name of 'You Noisy Bastard'. It's not elegant, but it serves its purpose.
Either one — or both — of the birds takes great delight in landing on the gutter or on a tree just above my head and letting loose with that appalling call when I'm least expecting it. Or generally when I'm least expecting it. For once, I was a step ahead. I don't expect it will happen again.
6 comments:
It sounds horrible - the Cockies are bad enough. I like the look of the beak wide open to produce the most noise possible!
Like cockies, they're not shy! And I think they have a sense of humour --- also just like cockies.
Hee. Too funny.
Looked around and found it: http://www.myxer.com/mp3/id/6547303/Andrew-Skeoch-Sarah-Koschak/Victorias-Riflebird/
It's available as a ring tone. How can you resist? =) Scare the crapoutta your friends when you ring.
A ring tone? My goodness! I wonder if I could just train one of these two noisy fellas to follow me around and squawk when the phone rings. I'm sure they'd be in it for a slice of ripe pawpaw!
Stunning concept to have as a ringtone... maybe!!!
Hi Snail,
What a great photo... certainly looks to thoroughly enjoy its ability to give sudden operatic renditions of sound... maybe they're tone deaf and believe they're presenting you with a very rich informative Aria!
Do love your photos and accompanying words,
Good wishes from Magda(Australia)
Oh, Magda, I love that thought. I'll have to be a bit more gracious towards them. (Although they do seem to do it when I'm least expecting it!)
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