I observed that Sandhill Crane aggression is more posturing and acrobatics than actual physical contact. I witnessed dozens of ninja-like kick boxing episodes and rarely observed actual physical contact among the combatants. On several occasions I did observe the beak grabbing behavior that is depicted in this image.
The magnificent countenance of Heermann's Gull (Larus heermanni), La Jolla, California January 2018. Canon 5D IV, 100-400mm + 1.4x III, ISO 640, 1/800 second @ f/8, image size 5070 x 3380 pixels.
At sunrise, a Sandhill Crane (Grus canadensis) dances across the water in anticipation to fly. Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, New Mexico.
