ONE'S EYES ARE BIGGER THAN ONE'S STOMACH

 

The phrase "eyes are bigger than one's stomach" appears to apply to nature as well. This female Hooded Merganser spent a considerable amount of time searching for a meal. She would dive repeatedly and often come up empty-billed for over half an hour. Another female was waiting to take whatever she might find. Finally, she emerged with an exceptionally large yellow perch.

The chase was on for the prize she had discovered; she secured a better grip and swiftly retreated. The other female Hooded Merganser was quickly pursuing to snatch the fish. The fish, however, proved to be challenging in making a quick escape.

She paused and attempted to swallow the perch whole. The expression on her face, with bulging eyes, conveyed the adage "one's eyes are bigger than one's stomach." She soon realized that swallowing the fish was impossible. The chasing bird could not bear to witness the attempt, likely thinking that this would end poorly.

The bird cautiously raised its head to assess the situation, discovering that it was still struggling to swallow the fish. At this moment, it is likely questioning the wisdom of attempting to consume such a large prey. 

The thrilling chase went on for a while more, and then the fish was released back into the water.

© Chris LeBoutillier