Rwanda is said to be a birder’s paradise. Its Akagera National Park is the reputed home to 550 different bird species. Here in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital and urban center, the number of species isn’t as great for sure, but we’ve noticed lots of magnificent examples of the ornithological type. Many are brilliantly colored and zip around the yard nipping at the hibiscus that grows in abundance and of the super size variety; the speed of which has precluded my photographing them. Others seem to be frequent visitors to our backyard.
One black and white specimen in particular must think he is our own personal alarm clock. Without fail he (and it must undoubtedly be a male for what female would behave in such a manner?) taps persistently at our bedroom windows each morning just about 6 a.m. The windows appear to be coated with a reflective film to cut down on the sunlight and hence the heat in the house. We think that he attacks his own reflection because he views it as a rival bird encroaching on his territory. We’re not sure what species he is because we haven’t found a good bird guide yet for this region, so maybe one of informed readers, that would undoubtedly be you Larkin, can help us identify him and explain his bizarre behavior.
Birding buddies: you guys always get the neat birds coming to your back yard...or back door. It's an African Pied Wagtail, according to my book. I didn't have it marked as a species I saw in Namibia, but the map shows it is there. More common up your way, though.
ReplyDeleteAs for the door...you're exactly right about the shiny surface. We've had birds fight with our mirrors on our car. Seems like if they see the reflection once, they remember a 'competitor' is in that location, and they go looking for it.
You have two choices. One, save money on an alarm clock and let him peck away. Two, rub something (mud, flour) on the door glass and see if it disuades him. People put stickers or other things on the glass sometimes--to break up the reflection.
Have fun, and keep posting bird photos! I need to get tuned up for our trip to Namibia in May.
Larkin