This pair of starlings did their best to attack the rock monitor lizard which lay cunningly disguised on the trunk of a tree. They weren’t happy about the lizard’s presence and made this quite clear.
Starling alerts game viewers to lizard’s presence
Initially, a single glossy starling settled on the branches of a thornbush, its brilliant blue colour on display. Its striking colour stood in stark contrast to the toned-down brown scales of a monitor lizard, which was so well camouflaged that it could have been easily overlooked.
It was the bird’s behaviour which alerted witness Jan Bergh to the lizard’s presence.
Second starling appears on the scene
The single glossy starling was soon accompanied by a partner, which descended to the branches of the thicket below to sit alongside the other starling.
Get our Best Sightings as they Come in
The birds had the lizard in sight and it held their full attention.
Glossy starlings are some of the most eye-catching birds in the Kruger National Park. They are actually known for their metallic colours and their bold behaviour, which these ones definitely put on full show.
These birds are also highly intelligent and very vocal, communicating with a wide range of whistles, clicks and harsh calls. As relatively fearless birds, they are well known for mobbing behaviour.
Starlings attack lizard in breathtaking display
The pair of birds took turns bombarding the lizard with intimidating gestures; flapping their wings furiously and striking at it. They pulled out all the stops in their onslaught of the lizard.
The lizard, however, appeared relatively unmoved. It continued to lie completely still; still barely visible with its brown colour blending in beautifully with the surrounding bark.
The birds gathered momentarily to gather strength before having a go at the lizard again.
Their attempts appeared futile, however, they worked together as a team, convinced in their own minds that they had what it took to bring the giant down.
An example of teamwork at its finest
Starlings will often act together to drive a reptile away. This behaviour, known as mobbing, is a defensive strategy used to protect nests, eggs, or chicks from a known threat. These starlings definitely perceived the lizard as a threat and they would have none of it, even if the lizard was something of a ‘Goliath’ before them.
Rock monitor lizards are skilled climbers and notorious nest raiders, making them a prime target for aggressive birds.
While the birds’ efforts seemed pointless, in such an instance, each swooping attack will usually forces the lizard to shift its grip, limiting its ability to escape or descend safely. Eventually, the relentless harassment usually succeeds. The stressed monitor lizard will usually retreat lower down the tree or drop to the ground, where its speed and strength give it a better chance to flee.
This rare viewing showcased the determination of some of nature’s smallest species, in this instance, glossy starlings. Also, how even in the bushveld, through persistence and teamwork, anything is possible. Formidable opponents can be outmatched when smaller animals unite to defend their young and territory.
Neglected Senior Pup Finally Learns What Love Feels Like After He Meets His New Family
For the past ten years of his life, all Conrad, a senior Beagle, knew was neglect and abuse.
He was found in horrific shape in one of the city shelters, completely shut down from everything.
Despite his situation being vague, Conrad’s shape spoke for itself. He was severely malnourished, had rotten teeth, and was deeply depressed. This skin-and-bones dog knew nothing but suffering for the last decade, but all that was about to change within days!
Conrad’s Heartbreaking Backstory
Source: Beagle Freedom Project
Conrad was on the way to being euthanized by the shelter he was found in when the Beagle Freedom Project team, from Los Angeles, California, came across his story.
After ten long years in a home where he knew nothing but neglect, Conrad ended up being a shelter dog with zero chance for a new start. But, the BFP team acted timely!
In coordination with their partnering rescue groups, Beagle Freedom Project took Conrad in, ready to give him the transformation of a lifetime.
In the video posted by this Californian rescue, Kait, the social media manager, explains that this senior boy hasn’t had an easy life.
“This poor boy is in horrific condition. As you can see he is severely emaciated, he’s skin and bone, his hips are sticking out, his spine is sticking out, he has extremely dry skin,” Kait, BFP’s social media manager, says in the video.
However, thanks to the community and his amazing caregivers, Conrad was given a new chance in no time.
After weeks of care, TLC, and dental surgery, Conrad finally found a glimmer of hope that things might eventually end well!
The Most Wonderful News
Source: Beagle Freedom Project
Conrad’s incredible transformation took everyone by surprise!
Despite all odds, this senior boi showed remarkable spirit and resilience, which eventually resulted in his speedy recovery!
“We are excited to share that after a month of intensive care, healthy meals, and dental surgery, Conrad is feeling much better. He is finding joy in life again— exploring, playing, and even digging through the trash like a typical beagle,” the rescue wrote in an update post.
Source: Beagle Freedom Project
But, that wasn’t about it for sweet Conrad. In the same post, the rescue announced the greatest update about this lovely dog. After spending a few meaningful weeks in a new foster home, his dad couldn’t help but go all in for Conrad!
Instead of helping him find a new home, Conrad’s foster decided to make him a permanent member of the family.
“His incredible foster dad fell in love with him and decided to ADOPT him. Conrad has a forever family,” the rescue added.
After a lifetime of neglect and abuse, Conrad will finally have a nice, cozy home and a family to love him. And, that’s pretty much everything he had been looking for this entire time.
We wish you the best golden years of your life, sweet boi!
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