Preening is the ritual that all birds engage in to make sure their feathers are at their best. Great Egrets are no exception. They smooth their feathers with their beaks to help the barbs on the feathers interlock. An oil gland helps them maintain and waterproof their feathers. I watched a small group of Great Egrets as they preened in unison standing in a shallow pond. This Great Egret moved away from the group as it finished its preening with a stretch. Its beak is covered with downy feathers and the water behind it is covered with more downy feathers, all shed during preening. The neck stretch and wing stretch combine for an elegant look on this Great Egret.
Love the Great Egret, my favorite well, I also favor all bats. This photo us amazing!!!