A magpie in Troon, Ayrshire, captured attention with its unusual behavior as the nation’s excitement for the World Cup builds. The bird was observed using its foot to steady an apple while feeding, a gesture that drew comparisons to a footballer’s deft ball control.

Emily Winter, a 20-year-old student, noticed the bird near her home as she was taking her dog for a walk. She described the bird’s actions as “fancy footwork” and quickly photographed the scene. “He kept propping his leg up to hold the apple still, which, funnily enough, resembled a footballer,” Winter said. She added that the moment seemed fitting given Scotland’s ongoing participation in the tournament.

The magpie’s unusual pose has sparked lighthearted attention in the area, with some jokingly suggesting the bird might earn a place on Scotland’s World Cup squad, managed by Steve Lark. The incident reflects a broader enthusiasm for the event, showing how even wildlife can become part of the tournament’s widespread cultural impact.