Anting Behavior in Birds: Nature’s Feather-Cleansing Ritual
Among the many curious behaviors observed in birds, anting stands out as one of the most intriguing and least understood. More than 200 bird species—including songbirds, corvids, and raptors—have been documented performing this behavior, which involves using ants or other substances to treat their feathers and skin.
What Is Anting?
Anting is a maintenance behavior in which birds apply ants or ant-like substances to their feathers. It occurs in two distinct forms:
🔹 Active Anting
- The bird picks up ants in its beak and rubs them deliberately over its feathers.
- Often targets wings, tail, and back.
- Can last from a few minutes to half an hour.
- Birds may use ants multiple times or even substitute them with other items like millipedes, beetles, or marigold flowers.
🔹 Passive Anting
- The bird lies or crouches on an anthill, spreading its wings and tail.
- Allows ants to crawl freely over its body.
- Observed in species like robins, turkeys, and ravens.
Why Do Birds Ant?
Though the exact purpose remains debated, several hypotheses have emerged:
- Parasite Control
- Ants release formic acid and other defensive chemicals that may kill or repel feather lice and mites.
- Laboratory studies show formic acid concentrations >50% can be lethal to ectoparasites.
- Feather Maintenance
- Anting may help remove old oils or soothe skin irritation during molting.
- Some researchers liken it to preening or dust bathing.
- Detoxifying Prey
- Birds may use anting to neutralize the distasteful chemicals in ants before consuming them.
- Comfort or Sensory Stimulation
- Some birds appear to enjoy the sensation, suggesting a behavioral or neurological reward.
Historical Observations
- First documented by John James Audubon in 1831, observing wild turkeys wallowing in ant hills.
- In 1935, German ornithologist Erwin Stresemann coined the term “Einemsen,” later translated as “anting” by Indian ornithologist Salim Ali.
- Observations have since expanded globally, including in India, where species like the Black Drongo and Brahminy Kite have been seen anting.
Ecological Significance
Anting may represent a form of self-medication or symbiotic interaction, where birds use natural insect secretions to maintain feather hygiene and health. It’s a compelling example of how animals adapt behaviorally to environmental resources.
Birds Known to Practice Anting
- Blue Jay
- American Robin
- House Sparrow
- Common Raven
- Northern Mockingbird
- Wild Turkey
- Starlings
- Great Horned Owl
Some birds even use non-ant substitutes like mothballs (containing naphthalene), marigold petals (pyrethrum), or millipedes—highlighting their instinctive use of insecticidal compounds.
Raja Ghosh
Forest guard, forester in – charge
Elephant project, Jamshedpur
(DALMA)
