Pelican oil gland and preening | Great White Pelican | Rosy Pelican

Great White Pelican (Rosy Pelican) preening filmed at ​⁠Little Rann of Kutch, Gujarat, India.
Preening is a crucial grooming behavior in waterbirds, including Pelicans. It involves the careful cleaning and arrangement of feathers, which helps in maintaining their insulation and buoyancy. Additionally, preening distributes oil from a gland near the tail, making feathers more water-resistant for efficient swimming and protection against the elements. This behavior helps them to effectively hunt for fish.
Waterbirds, including pelicans, possess a specialized gland called the preen gland or uropygial gland near the base of their tail. This gland produces a substance often referred to as preen oil. During preening, the bird uses its beak to extract this oil and then spreads it across its feathers.
The preen oil serves several important functions:
1. Waterproofing: The oil forms a protective layer on the feathers, making them resistant to water. This is crucial for waterbirds as it helps them stay dry while swimming or diving.
2. Buoyancy: Well-maintained and waterproof feathers contribute to the bird's buoyancy. This is particularly important for species like pelicans that spend a significant amount of time on the water.
3. Flexibility: Preening aligns and conditions the feathers, ensuring they remain flexible. This flexibility is essential for effective flight and maneuverability.
4. Thermoregulation: Properly preened feathers provide insulation, helping the bird regulate its body temperature. This is crucial for birds that inhabit diverse environments.
In summary, the preen gland plays a vital role in the health and functionality of a bird's plumage, contributing to its ability to navigate aquatic environments and maintain overall well-being.
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[@escapeintothewild]

nice

[@WildwatchNature]

Huge Bird Thanks for information

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Big thanks for watching 🙂

[@BirdPhotos]

wonderful informative video

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thanks for noticing 🙏

[@capturingnaturewithsandip]

Awesome so lovely capture. Thanks for sharing the video of great white pelican.

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Thanks for supporting 🙏🏻

[@natureneverdies]

nice and amazing 💜💜💜

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Thank you 🙏🏻