Inflate your sac to show you love me.

Today's photos are from my mom,
who recently returned from a trip to Hawaii with her husband.

She's an amazing photographer, among other things.

I can't wait to share her whale shots with you next week.

But, for now,
Here are some pictures she took of a male African Grey-Crowned Crane
in Kula Botanical Garden in Maui.

This bird has a seriously awesome "do."

My hair frequently looks like this, actually.

These are the only cranes that can roost in trees,

because of a long hind toe that can grasp branches.

I want a long hind toe that can grasp things.
That's awesome.

The Grey Crowned Crane has a breeding display involving dancing, bowing, and jumping.
It also makes a honking sound quite different from the trumpeting of other crane species.

It has a booming call which involves inflation of the red gular sac.

I don't know about you, but nothing quite says "I love you" like the inflation of the red gular sac.



What are you waiting for?
Grab a camera & a critter!
Join the Camera Critters weekend meme!