This Juvenile Magpie Robin was found spreading its wings and tail feathers at 2.26pm hot 35ºc afternoon sun. It stays there for about 2 minutes, oblivious of my camera.
Why bird sunbathing?. Ornithologist have their own theories:
1. Feather maintenance - helping dislodge feather parasites - eg. Fleas, lice, and ticks.
2. To reduce the amount of metabolic energy to maintain a constant body temperature of around 40ºC.
3. Ultra-violet sunlight is involved in vitamin D conversion.
4. or just a feel-good factor.
Juvenile Magpie Robin sunbathes. The temperature was so hot that it was seen here panting with open bills.
References:
1. EcoBirds
2. Secret life of common bird. link here
