In addition to
its beautiful plumage, the hoopoe is unfortunately also noted for its filthy, malodorous
(stinky) nest. The bad odour comes from a combination of putrefying excrement (poo), which the
bird does not trouble to remove, and from defensive musty-smelling secretions
released from the preen gland of the female when she is disturbed.
This reminds me of a story told when we were visiting Hout Bay - we took a trip on the boat that goes around Seal Island. All was going well and there was a lovely fresh breeze blowing. Then the captain issued a warning: when the boat turned direction to head back to harbour, there would be a very strong smell - and he put it down to: the more slippery the animal (the seal), the stronger the smell. He was right - it was HORRENDOUS!
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