Birds that engage in wing-drying behavior are primarily those that have feathers that are not completely waterproof. This includes species such as cormorants, anhingas, pelicans, storks, herons, vultures, and hawks. These birds have feathers that lack the natural oils found in the feathers of most other bird species. As a result, their feathers become waterlogged when they spend time in the water, making it necessary for them to dry their wings.
One of the most well-known birds that engage in wing-drying behavior is the cormorant. Cormorants are excellent swimmers and divers, spending a significant amount of time underwater in search of fish. However, their feathers are not completely waterproof, which means that after diving, their feathers become saturated with water. To remove this excess water and regain their ability to fly efficiently, cormorants often adopt a characteristic posture known as “sunbathing.”
When cormorants sunbathe, they extend their wings fully, often holding them outstretched to the sides. The birds will then perch on a high vantage point, such as a rock or a tree branch, and face towards the sun. By exposing their feathers to the warm sunlight, the cormorants are able to dry their wings more quickly. This behavior is not only practical for wing-drying but also serves the purpose of thermoregulation, as the sun’s rays help to warm the birds’ bodies.
Anhingas, also known as “snakebirds,” are another species that engage in wing-drying behavior. Similar to cormorants, anhingas spend a significant amount of time in the water, hunting for fish. Their feathers lack the necessary oils to repel water, leading to water absorption. To dry their wings, anhingas adopt a similar posture to cormorants, spreading their wings wide open and facing the sun. This behavior is often observed after anhingas have finished fishing and are perched on a branch or exposed surface.
Pelicans, both Brown and White species, are also known to engage in wing-drying behavior. These large waterbirds have specialized feathers that help them float on the water’s surface while fishing. However, these feathers are not entirely waterproof, and pelicans can become waterlogged after prolonged periods in the water. To dry their wings, pelicans often stretch them out and hold them in a slightly raised position, allowing the sun’s rays to reach all parts of their feathers.
While the specific wing-drying behavior may vary slightly among different bird species, the underlying purpose remains the same – to remove excess water from their feathers and restore their ability to fly efficiently. This behavior is essential for these birds to maintain their mobility and hunting capabilities. Next time you spot a cormorant or anhinga perched with its wings outstretched, or a pelican with its wings slightly raised, you’ll know they are engaging in a vital wing-drying process.