Preening is critical to feather care and maintenance and raptors spend a fair amount of time each day making sure their feathers are in perfect condition. At the top of the base of their tail is the uropygial gland, or preen gland, which secretes a special oil used in preening. The bird collects this oil using its beak and head before rubbing and working it into the feathers across its body. Most bird species have an uropygial gland and the oil is believed to keep feathers flexible, strong, and

Birds preen by using their beaks to clean, smooth, and align their feathers, a vital grooming behavior for insulation, waterproofing, flight, and parasite removal, involving oil from the tail gland and interlocking feather barbs to keep plumage in top condition for survival, often for hours daily. | Get Wild

1.2K views · 26 reactions | Q: “Why do some birds preen more often than others?” A: “Some lines are naturally more meticulous with feather care. Good preening keeps them looking sharp and healthy.” | Gamefowl Enthusiast | Facebook