Tuesday, February 02, 2010

EUROPEAN BEE-EATER: PAINT THE SKY


The loveliest of Bee-eaters, European Bee-eater migrates across the Mediterranean Sea to summer in Europe. Wherever He goes, He flies together with his huge Flock. In their turquoise blues, brick reds, and lemon yellows, European Bee-eaters fill the skies with bright primary colours.

When his Flock returns to Europe, European Bee-eater eagerly finds his favourite hunting perch in their summering grounds. Rapidly scanning the area, He zips out and grabs a passing Insect. Gorging Himself on Bees, European Bee-eater will catch about two hundred Bee-sized Insects to feed his family. Because He feasts on Bees, many beekeepers regard Him to be a pest. However, European Bee-eater also eats Hornets and Bee Wolves, predators of Honey Bees.

In his large Colony, European Bee-eater lives with his family Clan. Within his Clan are non-breeding Birds, usually Uncles and Sons. These Bee-eaters help with the raising of the Clan’s Chicks.

Whether in a Colony or a Clan, European Bee-eater makes a colourful sight. Against a grey sky, He brightens it up. With a sunny sky, He enhances it with beauty. European Bee-eater paints the sky, as you can too.

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