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I came to Alberta to photograph American Stock Horse breeds and wild horses, but while visiting Widney Ranch birds became my main subject!

Brown-headed cowbirds are one of greatest horse allies - they eat all the parasites and flies off them every single day! Apart from a magnet for food horses are also great shield from small predators. And horses seem to love their company, knowing what relief they can bring. This is a beautiful example of life in the symbiosis between two different species!

More info: photo-equine.com

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Feathered Guardians Of The Western Prairies

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Sue Knerl
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

These birds land on my horses out in the pasture. I just called them "butt birds".

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Whawhawhatsis
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The open wings , showing the incredible curve of the spread-out feathers -- it's breathtaking! You were very lucky (and, I'm sure, patient) to get the shot!

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Whawhawhatsis
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"This is MY horse and these bugs are MY dinner. All the rest of you, leave us alone so I can eat in peace!" What a wonderful expression in the angle of the bird's head!

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Whawhawhatsis
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

"Did you hear what Fred did the other day while he was on Old Trusty's back? Everybody is talking about it!" A good bird gossip session, clearly!

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Sue Knerl
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6 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

One time I looked out and saw my mare with birds from her poll to her tail. Wish I had gotten a picture of it, it was awesome!

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