Dust bathing

Dust bathing is something many animals do to keep themselves clean and healthy. When animals like chickens, birds, and even some mammals like elephants or bears take a dust bath, they roll around in dry dirt or sand.

The dirt or sand helps the animals to remove any excess oil or dirt from their feathers, skin, or fur. It also helps them get rid of any parasites or insects that might be living on their body, like mites or lice.

To take a dust bath, the animal will find a suitable spot that is dry and has enough dirt or sand. They will then lie down in the dirt and use their beak, feet, or trunk to throw the dirt or sand all over their body. They will also flap their wings or roll around to make sure that the dirt reaches all parts of their body.

After the dust bath, the animal might shake themselves off to get rid of any excess dirt or sand, and then preen themselves to make sure that their feathers or fur are in good condition.

So, dust bathing is like taking a spa day for animals to keep them clean, healthy, and happy!