A Blue Jay Sunbathing, or “sunning” in my yard.
“Avian sunbathing has mystified ornithologists for decades, but some recent research is confirming an old suspicion that the behavior helps fend off lice”.
Here is a great article in reference to this: Hot, Bothered, and Parasite-free: Why Birds Sun Themselves
Avian sunbathing refers to birds soaking up the sun’s rays. Some birds, such as chickens, will lie in the sun to absorb heat and regulate their body temperature. Sunbathing can also help birds dry off after bathing or rainfall, and stimulate the production of vitamin D in their skin. Some species may also sunbathe to rid themselves of parasites such as mites.
Gear Used:
- Camera: Canon EOS R5
- Lens: RF100-500 mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
Technical:
- Location: My Yard (Arkansas)
- Date and Time Taken: July 7, 2022 (09:22 A. M.)
- Exposure Mode: Manual
- Aperture: f8
- Shutter speed: 1/800
- ISO: 320 (Auto)
- White Balance: Auto
- Metering Mode: Evaluative
- Back-button Focus
- Animal Eye Single Point Auto Focus
- Exposure Compensation: 0
- Focal Length: 500 mm