Miracles of Camouflage: How a Jacana Hides Its Chicks

This unique video from the San Diego Zoo (USA) captures an unusual moment in the life of jacanas. These birds are known for their amazing protective behavior: when threatened or when they need to move to another location, the parent tucks their chicks under their wings. This looks extremely unusual—a multitude of thin legs protrudes from beneath the adult bird's feathers, giving the appearance of a mythical multi-legged creature. The video vividly demonstrates the incredible care and natural survival mechanisms of these birds in aquatic environments.

Jacanas got their nickname from their incredibly long toes, which allow them to distribute their weight and literally walk on water lily pads without sinking. In many jacana species, males incubate the eggs and raise the young, while females guard the territory. The chicks cling to the parent's body under the wings, allowing the adult to carry them to safety, even when navigating deep water.