Chestnut-eared Aracari – Questions
Questions The Chestnut-eared Aracari is a strikingly colorful South American bird that is a notable member of the Toucan [think cereal] family. Their gaudily imprinted and outrageously large bills are hallmarks of this rowdy species. Why do they wear these impressive “badges”? There are questions and then there are questions. Oh Chestnut-eared Aracari, why do you seem to be wary? For one might just ask, “Why wear a mask that makes you look so darn scary”. Now let us all look at your beak. To say it is gross would be weak. Its size a surprise, why so large we surmise. The reasons all seem quite oblique. Is your bill used in courtship and breeding? Or primarily is it for feeding? No answers return, about this concern. We are left with a puzzle that’s needing. What are the selective pressures that have given rise to the unusual traits of the myriad creatures inhabiting our planet? Many questions still remain. ~ Poem and Chestnut-eared Aracari capture, Questions © Jerry L. Ferrara. Mato Grosso Brazil
