The dictionary defines a symbiotic relationship as a cooperative agreement between two groups. This video shows the symbiotic relationship between a flock of jackdaws and a red deer stag. The birds flutter around the deer’s head as he sits, while he barely moves an eyelid.
Videos by InspireMore
The stunning video was filmed by Lawrence Chatton in Richmond Park on the Thames in the United Kingdom. The park is home to fallow deer and red deer herds, which roam freely. This incredible footage offers a close-up view of birds removing bugs from the deer’s fur.
Especially notable is the calm assurance of the deer that the birds mean no harm. When one of the jackdaws moves up the stag’s face and pecks at an unseen bug near its eye, there is barely a blink. When the stag blinks more forcefully and moves his head, the birds dart away quickly. They don’t go far and will be back at their task soon.
This example of a symbiotic relationship shows that each “partner” benefits. The birds eat bugs, including fleas, ticks, and other parasites, while the deer gets rid of the pesky blood-sucking disease carriers.
Many people don’t have the opportunity to view scenes like this in the wild. Wildlife photographers spend countless hours searching for the perfect shot or video. The task requires infinite patience and dedication, a steady hand, and a watchful eye.
Special thanks to photographer Lawrence Chatton for his stunning footage. To view more similar videos, please visit and follow Lawrence Chatton on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Everything on his pages is incredibly beautiful, offering viewers a close-up look at nature.
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You can find the source of this story’s featured image here and here.
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