A Barred Owl at Chattahoochee Nature Center loves a good misting
Bathing helps birds of prey clean their feathers and remove parasites, and the center's raptors can choose whether to enjoy the water.
A Barred Owl at Chattahoochee Nature Center will happily stand under a misting as long as the water keeps coming, according to the center's Wildlife Team.
For birds of prey, bathing helps clean feathers and remove parasites. Afterward they preen, spreading natural oils from a gland near the base of the tail that keep feathers flexible and protect them from harmful microbes.
All of the center's resident raptors have water for bathing and drinking, and the Wildlife Team offers gentle misting on especially hot days. The birds can choose to enjoy the water or move away. The center takes donations for the care of resident wildlife.
From Chattahoochee Nature Center· Instagram · Nov 4
Open the post“Shake it off! 💦🦉 This Barred Owl loves a good misting. In fact, our Wildlife Team says she'll happily stand there as long as they keep the water coming! For birds of prey, bath time is about more than cooling off. Bathing helps clean their feathers and remove parasites. Afterward, they preen, using their beaks to spread natural oils from a special gland near the base of their tails. These oils help keep feathers flexible and protect them from harmful microbes. All of our resident raptors have access to water for bathing and drinking. During the warmer months, our Wildlife Team also offers gentle misting on especially hot days. The birds can choose whether to enjoy the water or move away. And as you can see, this owl is a big fan! Moments like these are part of the everyday care our Wildlife Team provides. Your donations help us care for resident wildlife and continue sharing opportunities to learn about the animals that call our watershed home. 💚 Want to help? Make a gift by visiting our website today.”
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