American Robin Takes The Plunge

After spying on the Eastern Bluebird enjoying a spa day in my backyard, the American Robin couldn’t resist taking a dip in the birdbath too. I mean, who can blame it? It’s hard to resist the temptation of a good soak!

But let’s get real for a second. Why do birds take baths? Well, contrary to popular belief, it’s not just to clean their feathers. Sure, that’s one benefit, but the main reason is to keep their feathers in tip-top shape.

You see, birds secrete an oil from a gland near their tails called the preen gland. This oil helps to waterproof their feathers and keeps them from getting waterlogged. But over time, this oil can build up and create a barrier on the feathers, making them less effective at keeping water out. That’s where baths come in. By taking a dip in the water, birds can loosen up the built-up oil and wash it away, leaving their feathers fresh and clean.

So, there you have it, folks. Birds take baths for more than just aesthetic reasons – it’s all about feather maintenance! And if you happen to have a birdbath in your yard, you might just get to witness some hilarious bird antics while they get their spa on.

Gear Used:

• Camera: Canon EOS R7
• Lens: Canon RF 100-500 mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
  

Technical:

I photographed this American Robin from inside my pickup parked in my driveway. I had my camera and lens resting on a beanbag draped over an open window.

• Location: Lavaca (Arkansas)
• Date and Time Taken: March 7, 2023 (08:09 A. M.)
• Exposure Mode: Manual
• Aperture: f8
• Shutter speed: 1/3200
• ISO: 5000 (Auto)
• Focal Length: 500 mm