Altercation...Witnessed

Over the last few weeks I've been watching Great-tailed Grackles foraging about the various rock outcroppings along the coast here in the Guanacaste at low tide. I've had to time my visits to coincide with the early morning light, and the last few mornings have offered some neat opportunities to photograph. I've been enjoying these birds pick and forage as they pull various aquatic invertebrates from the receding tide.

This morning however I encountered an unusual situation. One of the males had found an object that he was parading around until another male took exception-there were several other witnesses besides myself. Hope you enjoy the sequence-it was a blast to watch.

Playa Brasilito, Guanacaste, Costa Rica

And the altercation:

 

Chuck, it's really interesting to see this, and for me especially to see the other two watching so intently.  Normally when I see things like this no other birds pay any attention unless they have to get out of the way.  This time they're already out of the way, but they look fascinated.  Very cool.

Oh, and the first photo is really beautiful.

Great interactive series Chuck. The two watchers are a great addition, you did well to notice them, let along include them in the series. 

Pretty cool, Chuck.  Thanks for sharing....

Really neat action, Chuck.  I se a lot of this kind of thing among birds, but it always seems to be over before my slow reflexes get around to moving the camera.  The spectators are unusual.  

Thanks for posting this.

Pretty neat!  Thanks for sharing.

Great action shots.  Well done!!
 

Agree with all the other comments.  A reminder for me that selecting an observation spot and staying with it over a few days like you did here pays off.  Fine photography action images.  Kudos.

Great action series Chuck!