:format(webp)/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/grupoclarin/HVYKQDXALFFSNG67SOCLGG535Y.jpg "In Sweden, a duckling’s beak froze due to low temperatures")
In northern Europe, specifically in Sweden, winter brings with it very low temperatures, and a duckling became the protagonist of the fight against the extreme cold. The skilled photographer, Patrik Luther, documented the journey of the female duck that found its beak completely frozen at -20°C.
In the visual material shared by Luther on his Instagram account, the duck is seen moving its head and scratching the ice in an obvious attempt to free itself. The photographer’s speculation is that the ice formed while the duck rested between dives, allowing layers of water to thaw over its beak.
How did you unfreeze your beak?
The duck’s surprising solution to unfreezing its beak involved hiding its face under its own feathers, taking advantage of the heat emanating from its own body. Luther explained that it is common for similar situations to occur in the region, and that ducks, when taking breaks from dipping their beaks in the water, can face the accumulation of layers of ice.
In addition, he noted that another strategy is to continue searching for food in the water, maintaining body heat and preventing ice from accumulating.