Back in July of this year, I captured an image of an American Robin sunbathing in my backyard and wanted to share it now. In the same month, I also photographed a Blue Jay soaking up the rays, which I wrote about in a previous post “A Blue Jay Soaking Up the Rays”.
Watching a Backyard Sunbather
I was working at my desk a couple of days ago when I glanced out the window. I saw a Robin sunbathing near the bird bath I have set up. Several other Robins were already splashing in the birdbath. This one looked like it was waiting its turn while soaking up the sun. I really wished I could have gotten a photo. I was afraid I would scare them off if I stepped out onto the deck. It was still cool just watching them through the window.
Why American Robins Sunbathe
While the scorching Arkansas heat has been rough on both birds and people, the Robin was making the best of it. Sunbathing allows birds to heat parts of their bodies that don’t normally get much sun exposure when they’re hopping around on the ground. The warmth also prompts preening, which lets birds pick off dead lice loosened by the sun. In addition to pest control, sunning helps regulate body temperature and stimulate vitamin D production.
Whatever evolutionary reasons drive them, it’s a delight to watch birds fully engaged in sunbathing. This Robin looked calm as it relaxed in the yard. Sunbathing reminds us to slow down and enjoy simple moments. It feels like letting the sun warm your skin on a quiet afternoon. We could learn from that. We should set aside more time to soak up a little sunshine.
When the Photo Doesn’t Matter
I may not have captured the Robin on camera, but watching it sunbathe was a special moment. The bird bath draws colorful visitors to my yard. I enjoy watching them interact with each other and their surroundings. Sunbathing Robins are just one small joy among the many wonders of nature I experience in my own backyard.