Birds need to keep their feathers in top condition. One of the ways they do this is to “ant”. They actively pick up ants and rub them on their feathers; the chemical excretion from the ants is thought to help get rid of parasites. #Springwatch BBC Springwatch video: Paul Stancliffe | BTO British Trust for Ornithology

Anting is one of the most fascinating and unusual behaviors in birds. It happens when a bird deliberately applies ants (or sometimes other insects or substances) onto its feathers and skin. Scientists have documented this in more than 200 bird species worldwide, from songbirds like thrushes and starlings to larger birds like crows and turkeys. There are two main types of anting: 1. Active Anting – the bird picks up ants in its beak and rubs them onto its feathers, wings, or skin. 2. Passive Anti