Results 1 to 3 of 3

Thread: Dirt Bath?

  1. #1
    BPN Viewer
    Join Date
    Aug 2010
    Location
    Colorado
    Posts
    37
    Threads
    14
    Thank You Posts

    Default Dirt Bath?

    Attached Images Attached Images
     
    I saw this white tailed ptarmigan rolling in the dirt at Rocky Mountain National Park. Believe it was taking a dirt bath? A very nice bird who is willing to actually walk your way to get his picture taken. Although a bit hard to find amongst the rocks with his beautiful camouflage.

  2. #2
    Forum Participant
    Join Date
    Jan 2008
    Location
    Canada
    Posts
    6,588
    Threads
    643
    Thank You Posts

    Default

    It is indeed Steven. Birds' plumage is critical to their survival and they spend a lot of time taking care of it. Where water is plentiful, they usually take a water bath- dust baths are more common in drier areas. The dust is thought to absorb excess oils and waxes that would build up in the feathers and cause them to mat. Although it's tempting to think that the dust also removes feather parasites like lice and ticks, there's no evidence that this a function of dust bathing. Thanks for posting.

  3. #3
    BPN Viewer Jeff Cashdollar's Avatar
    Join Date
    Jan 2008
    Location
    Nashville TN
    Posts
    3,490
    Threads
    268
    Thank You Posts

    Default

    Steven nice post thanks for sharing. I can see how he is well hidden, good eye. Love the behavior image - well done - keep em coming.

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •  
Web Analytics