Sitka, a Bald Eagle and Raptor-in-Residence here at the Alaska Raptor Center, showing off her preening skills! Preening is a bird's way of grooming its feathers to keep them in the best condition. While preening, birds remove dust, dirt, and parasites from their feathers and align each feather into the perfect position! Most birds will preen several times a day to keep themselves healthy. | Alaska Raptor Center

6.8K views · 318 reactions | Nothing feels better than a good preening session! Preening is a very important part of maintaining feather quality for all birds, especially shore and seabirds. Birds have a uropygial gland which is known as the preen gland. Birds use their beaks and head to distribute this oil to all other feathers to keep them water resistant and dry! | CROW - Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife, Inc. | Facebook

If you want to take a unique bird photo, try snapping while they’re preening. Birds move around a lot when they are doing a bit of feather maintenance, giving you an opportunity to possibly capture something a little different. #wildlifephotography #birdphotography #naturephotography #nature #sandhillcrane | Images By John Delhotal

1.2K views · 26 reactions | Q: “Why do some birds preen more often than others?” A: “Some lines are naturally more meticulous with feather care. Good preening keeps them looking sharp and healthy.” | Gamefowl Enthusiast | Facebook