Aquatic Magpies

Splish - Splash taking a bath.

I found a place where the Magpies are gathering at a shallow area in Cheater Creek and bathing. I have seen them the last two days. Only one or two birds would bath at a time. After they would sit in the bushes and preen. Birds seamed to be coming and going, with about a half a dozen at any one time.

I have never heard of any thing similar. Has anyone else witnessed anything similar?
The temperature is just a few degrees above freezing.

The cold water didn't appear to phase the Magpies. They dive under while shaking and flopping to wet and clean the feathers.

As this fellow surfaces, there is a sheet of water flowing off its back, and a spay of drops above its head.

could there be a spring there that is warming the water a little?

Nice pics Gary!

Those guys are beautiful!

Great shots! Beautiful bird! He/she sure is having a fun time!

Thanks for sharing all yours pics!

Marilyn

Bathing is a fairly high-risk activity - I'd guess the others were 'standing guard' to yell if a raptor appeared.

Resin