The young Great Blue Heron that has taken over "Moe's" spot (Moe being the resident heron for many years) has not learned to be graceful at all times. He still has a lot of the awkwardness of a young teenager. This clumsiness comes in view when the bird is making a mad dash for mullet or menhaden from my net. (I spend more time feeding the birds than fishing!) If this new heron (Alfalfa) is standing on one of the pier posts, he is gorgeous...all full of poise and elegance but, once food appears, he is just a silly, young bird.
All I caught today was a prickly pinfish but Alfalfa was ready for breakfast and had no qualms about tackling the pointy fins. As soon as the fish was tossed his way, the bird raced down the pier to grab his prize. With neck outstretched and wings held back, he stabbed at the poor fish. In one gulp the five inch long fish was down the gullet! There was no pomp and circumstance in his method...just grab and go!
While I am happy to catch breakfast for this bird, I sure miss my Moe. He had become quite tame and would carefully take fish from my hand making sure to not grab a finger by mistake. Moe was a friend. Hopefully, Alfalfa will follow suit.
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