Preen and Clean
In their free time, when they are not feeding, the birds scratch their bodies with their beaks as though they have itching problem. Such combing action is called as preening of feathers.
The birds can have up to 25,000 feathers that cover their bodies, to fly in air while also protecting the skin and in thermoregulation. The beaks are passed from the base of each feather to the tip unhooking the locks in the barbs and aligning them again. This maintains their aerodynamic shape, as well as ensures waterproofing and thermal insulation.
Birds come into contact with ground and water and can easily become infested with parasites like lice and mites that are harmful to the health of the birds. Preening removes all foreign creatures from the body, while also providing a snack to the insectivorous birds.
The old, loose and molten feathers are banished in the process, as birds pluck and throw away the old feathers to give way to new ones. This self care enables the birds to appear aesthetically appealing during the courtship rituals.
With so many benefits, it is natural that birds spend most of their time in preening their feathers when not foraging for food.
Preen and Clean
In their free time, when they are not feeding, the birds scratch their bodies with their beaks as though they have itching problem. Such combing action is called as preening of feathers.
The birds can have up to 25,000 feathers that cover their bodies, to fly in air while also protecting the skin and in thermoregulation. The beaks are passed from the base of each feather to the tip unhooking the locks in the barbs and aligning them again. This maintains their aerodynamic shape, as well as ensures waterproofing and thermal insulation.
Birds come into contact with ground and water and can easily become infested with parasites like lice and mites that are harmful to the health of the birds. Preening removes all foreign creatures from the body, while also providing a snack to the insectivorous birds.
The old, loose and molten feathers are banished in the process, as birds pluck and throw away the old feathers to give way to new ones. This self care enables the birds to appear aesthetically appealing during the courtship rituals.
With so many benefits, it is natural that birds spend most of their time in preening their feathers when not foraging for food.