What foraging technique involves picking insects off foliage surfaces meticulously?
Answer
Gleaning
Gleaning is a foraging strategy characterized by the bird meticulously picking small prey, including insects, larvae, and spiders, directly from the surfaces of leaves, needles, and branches. This behavior requires the Western Tanager to move deliberately through the tree canopy while closely inspecting the foliage for static prey items. This method ensures the capture of invertebrates resting on vegetation, contrasting sharply with techniques used to catch flying insects mid-air.
Related Questions
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