Tug of War
Posted by norm hepner on July 23, 2003
Q: Do birds eat worms crawling on asphalt and concrete after a rainstorm? I never noticed them eating off a hard surface, can you explain why?
A: Excellent observation. I too have wondered about this since you would think all of these exposed worms would be an an easy meal for any hungry bird. I have been unable to find an answer but do have my own possible explanation.
Flooding of the ground causes worms to seek higher areas such as roads, driveways and sidewalks. Even in these higher locations, many seem to die anyway (are they drowned?). Worms begin to decay rather quickly, once dead it seems that birds don't feed on them if they're not "fresh".
One problem with this explanation, however is the fact that I've often seen live worms crawling around on the sidewalk too and have not seen birds feeding on these either. This would make a good mini-research project for someone to undertake. Sorry I can't be of more help. I'd love to hear from anyone who might have an answer to this one.
John Wiessinger ( July 29, 2003)