Lersum
| Lersum | |
|---|---|
| Image |  Drawing of a Lersum |
| Plural | Lersuns |
| Type | Bird |
| Region(s) | Balúrail |
| Subregion(s) | Western Lowlands |
Introduction
The Lersum (plural Lersuns) is a large bird native to the Western Lowlands of Balúrail. It is an excellent swimmer and feeds on fish.
Etymology
Lersum is the Tuzquês word for wading.
Description
The Lersum is a large bird with a long neck, long legs and a long, slender bill that curves slightly downward. Its toes are fringed with broad lobes, which it uses to swim. Adults are white, with black tips to the wings and bare reddish-orange skin on the face and bill. Young birds are brown, with darker, mottled wings, a grey-brown head and neck and a paler bill.
Behaviour
The Lersum hunts by diving from the surface and swimming underwater, driving itself with its lobed feet while holding its wings close to its body. In shallow water it wades, and it often rests standing on one leg at the water's edge.
Distribution and Habitat
Lersuns live mostly in the swamps of the Western Lowlands, and also along some of the region's rivers.
Diet
Lersuns eat fish.
Predators
Adult Lersuns are taken in the water by the Urinsue. In the swamps, Turfels take eggs and young birds.
See also