This week in the woods, cold and slushy “duck weather” defeated our best intentions, and we spent most of the past two days hiding inside with hot chocolate and slippers. We were thus inspired to share this throwback series of photos from December 6, 2020, when we encountered a duck (a male mallard), fully engrossed in a preening session. Not shown in this photo are several nearby ducks that were also preening. Apparently, feather grooming is as infectious as a yawn.
Ducks and most other birds have an uropygial (preening) gland located behind the tail. This gland produces oil, and in waterfowl, the oil has a critical role in waterproofing feathers. What look like advanced yoga moves, are in fact the mallard using his long neck and head to apply the oil to his back, front, and sides.
You can also see, in the bottom right photo, how the mallard is running his bill through his chest feathers. In common with many other birds, ducks have outer (contour) feathers that feature tiny hooks (barbicels) that interlock to create a water- and airtight cover for an underlayer of down. These cover feathers keep the down – and therefore, the duck – warm and dry. However, sometimes, they get out of order and the barbicels unlock. A duck will run its bill through its feathers to reconnect the hooks.
What have you noticed in the woods this week? Submit a recent photo for possible inclusion in our monthly online Reader Photo Gallery.