Why does this Common gull have no feet??

seymouraves said:

 

Hi,

birds do actually lose toes occasionally- it's an occupational hazard with (especially) ground feeders. Pigeons and game birds are prone to it because of injury, infection etc. Gulls frequent rubbish tips and pick up disease as well as getting their feet tangled in plastic, wire etc and they can lose toes or feet that way.

Gulls are a successful species family-  they adapt, this bird may survive. :)

 

S

Thanks Seymour, I realise that, it was just the fact that both feet are missing....almost amputated cleanly at the ankle by the looks of things.......

It is amazing how birds adapt quite well with injury and no medical attention, one legged waders are quite a common site along the coastal reserves.  For well over a year we have had a starling with one useless leg that sticks out at an angle visit the garden, known to us as 'hoppy' he is still able to hold his own with the other starlings and is even able to use the hanging fat feeders.

ND

Hi jim

I am sorry i overlooked this thread.

I know I have missed a few threads but try not too {wink}

That is amazing photography, and the bird to have no feet is something else

Wonder how he does walk?

Regards

Kathy and Dave