Meet the Bluethroat, a resilient little beauty with a hardship! Despite a missing hallux (backwards-facing toe), this Bluethroat continues to thrive, depicting the true strength and adaptability of nature. The hallux is very useful for these birds to perch on a branch of tree or shrub. The big toe plays an important role in balance and foot movement. When the bird is perched or walking, the big toe bears about 40–60% of the body’s weight. You can also notice, due to the injury, a callus formed, which may make it slightly more difficult for the bluethroat.
It was early in the morning, this bluethroat was assessing the situation and looking for a safe place to feed. Stay tuned for more lifers like this one every week!
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