Playing the Long Game

Two surfbirds, one after the other, land on opposite sides of an offshore rock. The rock is large, but only a small portion remains exposed above the turbulent surf. The birds feed on algae clinging to the rock sides, which are only accessible for a few seconds before the next wave arrives. Within those next few seconds, the first bird to arrive faces a choice: feed now or forgo the opportunity to feed immediately and fight for the territorial rights to the entire rock.

Without delay, the first arrival lowers its wings and leans its body toward the intruder, claiming additional space. Through the salt spray, one can see its eyes, normally black, now tinged with red. Its bill is open, revealing ridges that act like teeth and give the bird a menacing look. The second bird steps back to appease the aggressor. A good response, but not good enough. The aggressor vocalizes toward the second bird. It’s a sharp, squeaky sound, as if one had stepped on a rubber toy. When repeated multiple times, the sound riddles one’s cranium and demands submission.

The intruder concedes by hopping a few inches away, settling the dispute. However, neither bird will feed. The next wave has broken, and the advancing surf is about to submerge the rock, forcing both birds to take to the air.

As the birds fly over the oncoming wave, they move in a circular motion, with the aggressor as the only bird to return to the rock. This bird, having established a claim to the territory, will now enjoy the right to feed without additional challenges. A right that the rising tide will render moot in 10 minutes.