Scaly-throated honeyguide, Indicator variegatus, photographed at Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania, Africa.
Image: Dan Logen, January 2010 [velociraptorize].
Nikon D2X, 600 mm lens, ISO 400, f/5.6, 1/250 sec.
Question: This African mystery bird has a peculiar behavior (that even is reflected in its scientific name) and it also has an unusual physiological ability related to that behavior. Can you tell me about these characters?
Response: This is a scaly-throated honeyguide, Indicator variegatus. These birds got their common and scientific names in honour of their behavior where they call loudly and chatter to attract the attention of humans or medium-sized animals. They lead these animals to a bees' nest, where hopefully, they will tear the nest apart to obtain the honey. After the nest has been ripped apart, the honeyguides swoop in to eat the larvae and the wax. (honeyguides are one of the few birds that can digest wax.)
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