Wild turkeys perform self-maintenance behaviors like dusting, sunning, and anting

Wild turkeys engage in several daily behaviors to maintain their health, according to the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. These include dusting, sunning, and anting, which help keep their feathers in good condition and control parasites.

During dusting, both adult birds and poults lay on their breasts and flap their wings, tossing dirt over themselves. This behavior, which may look like a meltdown to outsiders, helps remove excess oil and parasites from their feathers.

Turkeys also sun themselves by lying on their sides with one wing and leg extended into direct sunlight. Sunning helps regulate body temperature, dry feathers after rain, and dislodge parasites. Additionally, turkeys perform anting by dusting in ant mounds, allowing ants to crawl through their feathers. This behavior is believed to reduce parasites like feather mites and lice, especially during late summer and fall when they molt.

The department notes that although these behaviors may seem unusual, they are vital routines for turkey health. Observers who see these behaviors in the wild are witnessing important self-care practices, the agency said.

For more information on the daily rituals of wild turkeys, visit this link. Photo by Paul T. Brown.

Source: Original Article