Megapode

[laurab]

Did you know that the Megapode chick is the only bird to break out of its shell without the assistance of an egg tooth!

I also hatches out under ground under about a foot of earth. It then lies on its back and kicks out with its large feet until it breaks out to the surface. This takes several days for the chick to do and it survives on the remains of a huge egg yolk that lies within its stomach.

By the time it reaches the surface it is in full feather, completely independant and is able to fly immediately.

Amazing!!

[Waxbillman]

amazing that, isn't that also known as the brush turkey? i know that lays its egg buries is and the natural heat incubate and hatches it,

Matthew

[laurab]

I'm not sure Matt; I bought David Attenborough's The Life of Birds book today from a charity shop - only £3.99!

I will post more interesting articles as I come accross them.

[Waxbillman]

oh right, well i believe it is,, either the bush turkey or brush, cannot remember.

great book Laura i have had that a few years, amazing book, great photos, i think i will re-read it one of these days

Matthew

[Waxbillman]

just had a look, and it is the brush turkey (Alectura lathami)

just had a quick flick through, some amazing birds, colours and displays

what an impressive nesting colony of the sociable weaver, must way a tonne that nest!!

Matthew

[laurab]

It really is a good read.....not quite the James Patterson that I am used to! :-P