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

Preening is a birds way of grooming their feathers to keep them in the best condition. Preening allows the birds to secrete an oil-like substance which aids in the waterproofing process. Throughout rehabilitation, waterproofing is tested to ensure that when they are released, they can safely dive to catch prey. Why is this bird getting a shower? Rehabbers look for the water to roll of their backs to ensure proper waterproofing. Check out this video of our Laughing Gull patient getting waterproof

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