by Molly Miller
Sunday morning, June 15, I watched a female Townsend’s Solitaire take a quick dip in one birdbath, then hop over to a second, nearby one, which she found more favorable. Perhaps this bath was a little warmer or deeper–it was just right for her! She dipped her head in the pool, then flicked her wings, and ended with a back flutter just on the water’s surface. She then dipped, flicked, and fluttered two more times, the same dance with the same rhythm. When she was done, she flew to a nearby Douglas fir, where she shuddered from head to tail, preened, and fluttered. She repeated this routine again before taking another spin through the birdbaths and flying off. By that time a pair of American Robins were impatiently pacing below, waiting for their turns to bathe.
Bathing is helpful for keeping birds cool and hydrated and for removing dirt and parasites from their feathers. Maintaining clean birdbaths is a wonderful way to attract a wide variety of birds (and other thirsty creatures) to your yard. Once a bird starts bathing, you will have plenty of time to observe them. It’s a treat for everyone.
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