The white-legged
appearance is caused by the birds defecating
on their own legs. The Turkey Vulture also
does this and in that case it is because
the droppings are soothing and a strong
antiseptic. It was originally thought the
Marabou Stork did this for the same reasons,
however it is now known that this helps
regulate body temperature. Birds also pant
when they become overheated.
Photograph
Courtesy Of:
Broderbund
-- (Copyright
©
2000) | 
