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Black Necked Stilts

June 16, 2009

A biology professor I had in college asked us to think about the color of animals. He said that an animal’s color scheme was the product of evolution and makes them more succesful in their world. A successful individual is able to eat more and breed more. The color, or more accurately, pattern of Black Necked Stilts is interesting to think about. How does this pattern make them more successful in their environment?

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black-necked-stilts-and-mud-turtle-6-15-2009_061509_1997

Oregon Coast
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    5 Comments

  • Jamie June 17, 2009
    Reply

    Their black backs help them blend in with the marsh mud when viewed from above, protecting them from predators while the white undersides blend with the sky when seen from a fish’s view underwater thus enabling them to successfully stalk and eat prey.

  • Tony Pratt June 17, 2009
    Reply

    This is the best theory so far. It seems plausible.

  • Eli June 18, 2009
    Reply

    so smart!

  • Jennifer Carey July 12, 2009
    Reply

    One of my favorite shorebirds. The theory makes sense.

  • Reply

    i just learned from jamie and you; terrific shots!

  • Leave a Reply to Jamie Cancel