Day 13

Folks, it’s all in the beak. That’s right, the beak is what matters most in this next event: the Seed Extraction Pairs Competition • Our final four pairs are perched and awaiting the signal to begin. It’s a terrific lineup too. We have Team Northern Cardinal, Team Goldfinch, Team House Finch and Team Rose-breasted Grosbeak. Clearly I’m no expert but it seems to me the size of the competitor’s beak is the most important factor in winning this contest. It takes great skill to slice each one of those seeds open and extracting the kernel inside. How do they do it? • Let’s ask our resident Maine Audubon expert how it’s done. Rachel? • “As you said earlier, it’s all about their beak. They’re so quick and they make it look easy, but it’s actually a 5-Step Process. First, position the seed; next, slice it open; husk it; extract the kernel with the tongue, and swallow. It’s an amazing skill that only these birds have! Back to you on the sideline” • Thanks so much for explaining that to us, Rachel. Now, let the munching begin!