A Most Extraordinary Day

Pacific Northwest Stadium was full to capacity this morning for the Heron Camouflage competition.  This is one of the more sophisticated AOG events, with very specific requirements.

As you may know, heron are particularly good at hiding in tall grass when they wait by a water body for an unsuspecting fish and from that vantage point are able to pounce on the fish with success.  Sadly, the first competitor was simply too young and inexperienced to manage the requirements.  

He was informed by a senior judge that hiding under his wing did not constitute correct camouflage technique.  The judges were very kind and scolded him gently.  In a face-saving gesture he pretended to preen and scratch an itch.  Humbled, but not defeated, he visited the snack bar and left with lunch and his head held high, no doubt to return next year, older but wiser.

Posted in Extras are the preening and scratching "poses", as well as the snack bar visit.  Also, for reference, an excellent example of heron camouflage from past competitions.

Team Beaver made a brief, splashy appearance with Benny Beaver competing in the Keep Your Nose Up competition.  His form was amazing as he glided silently through the course showing only his nose (which is the ultimate form).  It takes many years to perfect such form and to remain so quiet (aside from the splashy water entrance) that the judges almost missed his routine..  It was a gold medal run for Team Beaver.  Also in Extra.