Why do blackbirds like to sit in the sun with their mouth open, sunbathing.?

Question

I often see blackbirds sitting in the hottest part of the garden with their wings spread and their mouths wide open. Why do they do this?

Answer 1

Some say that they can make vitamin D in the oils in their feathers this way, others say that it helps to keep down feather parasites. I think they just get drunk on warmth and sunlight!

Answer 2

They usually do this at a time when ants are around. They spread their wings to allow the ants to crawl and eat any mites that are on the body.Their mouth is open to help them keep cool whilst the process is going on.Magpies have also been known to do this.

Answer 3

They are hot. All birds lift their wings and open their mouths if they are overheated. The underside of a birds wings are very warm.
Lizards do the same thing when they are hot..open thier mouths.

Answer 4

They are keeping themselves cool. It's probably a little warm, the birds don't have airconditioning. Birds sit with their mouths open just like dogs pant.

Answer 5

They are probably zoning in on a victim. Birds are evil - they want to peck out the eyes of humans with their sharp little beaks and talons. Didn't you ever see the movie The Birds by Alfred Hitchcock?

Answer 6

Since birds don't sweat that is they way to release extra heat.


Sapphyre
Certified Avian Specialist
http://www.borrowed-rainbow.com
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BorrowedRainbowAviary/

Answer 7

To keep the lice away.

Answer 8

they are trying to cool off believe it or not...its their way of sweating

Answer 9

they like sunbathing

Answer 10

panting to stay cool.