I just watch our male bluebird do something that I have not seen before nor read about on the various sites and forums. And as I had just gone out on the deck to drink my tea I did not have my camera with me - so let me describe it. The male flew out of a tree to a neighbors azalea bed that is covered with the "silver dollar" mulch. He spread both wings and laid on the bark for almost 3 minutes. He then seemed to peck at something (possibly a bug or a grub) and flew back to the tree where he waited to go to the nest box. Has anyone witnessed a similar behavior in the bluebirds or any other bird for that manner?
Bluebird behavior
I have no idea what "silver dollar" mulch is, but has it just rained up there or is it in the shade? Perhaps it was damp or cool. they love to bathe.
I'll be curious to se what others say.
Birdie,
This "silver dollar" mulch I believe is a pine bark that is oval shaped, probably a bit larger than a silver dollar. Most people use it for their azalea gardens and shrubs. It did rain the day before this happened byt the bird was not flapping his wings as if "showering". He just laid there.
David
hmmmm, very interesting......
I havn't a clue.
We need Dave!
It sounds like he was sunbathing. They spread their wings out so the sun hits the preen glands and helps with preen oil production. I witnessed the same behavior last year with a male Bluebird but all birds do it. Hope this helps...
Oh, how very interesting!!!