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Australian Magpie male feeding female |
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The following photos illustrate behaviour that we have observed at the start of the breeding season (early September 2011). The female, who will be doing all of the incubating in the weeks to come, will rely on her mate to feed her while sitting on the nest. The two strengthen their bond in advance, with him feeding her (either on or off the nest). This way she tests his reliability as a partner.
The female uses the same incessant call as a chick to beg for food
The male responds by bringing her special gifts...
... which she accepts and then brings out of his reach
