Let’s begin today’s Wonder of the Day with a joke. Alright, here it is: What is the name for a bird that is scared to fly when it’s raining?
Any guesses? That’s correct, it’s a chicken! Ha! Of course, chickens don’t fly much anyway, regardless of rain. However, rain does have an impact on the flying behavior of most birds.
Can birds fly in the rain? Yes, they can, but not very well. While it is not impossible for birds to fly in the rain, they usually choose not to. You may observe birds flying short distances in bad weather to search for food, but most of them prefer to stay in one place.
Why does rain make it more challenging for birds to fly? You might think that moving through the air while being hit by raindrops would be quite bothersome. However, it is not the rain itself that hinders flying. Instead, birds are affected by the decrease in air pressure that accompanies most rainstorms.
When the pressure drops, the air becomes less dense. There are fewer molecules, which makes flying more difficult for birds. Moving through the sky in areas of low air pressure requires a lot of energy. That’s why you will see more birds perched on tree branches or even power lines during a storm.
If the rain continues for a while, however, birds will have to face the storm. Most birds need to eat multiple times a day, and they will fly short distances in the rain to find food. Fortunately, their feathers are highly waterproof. Most of the water will roll off their feathers, protecting the skin underneath. Many birds can also produce oil that they can spread over their feathers to provide further protection from the rain.
Despite this protection, most birds do not like rain. In fact, a study conducted in 2010 discovered that rain causes them a great deal of stress. A team of researchers examined birds living in a rainforest in Costa Rica. By analyzing blood samples, they found that the birds had higher levels of a stress hormone on rainy days.
This may not come as a surprise. After all, many animals feel stressed during storms. Pet owners often find that rain and thunder make their pets nervous. Some animals react to nature so strongly that they almost appear to predict the future!
On the other hand, some birds don’t seem to mind rain at all. Ducks, for instance, are known to stay out in the rain and even play in puddles. That’s how the phrase “Lovely weather for the ducks” came to describe a rainy day. Birds have also been observed using a heavy downpour as an opportunity to bathe themselves. For those living in hot and dry climates, rain also appears to be a welcome chance to cool off.
Although birds prefer not to fly in the rain, it is not impossible for them to do so. Have you ever witnessed a bird flying through a heavy rainstorm? Most likely, they were searching for food. What do you enjoy doing when it rains? Would you rather play in the rain or stay warm indoors? If you’re similar to most birds, you probably seek shelter!
Give it a Try
No worries, we’ll return tomorrow with another fascinating Wonder of the Day! Meanwhile, ask an adult to assist you in continuing your learning with one or more of the activities listed below.
- Reflect on the most recent rainstorm in your area. Were you aware that it was going to rain? Were you at home or caught in the storm? What did you do while it was raining? Write a brief personal story about the experience. Include as many details as possible. How did the storm sound? How did it appear? How did you feel?
- Are you fascinated by birds? Take a look at these award-winning bird photographs! Which of these birds would you love to see in their natural habitat? Why? Discuss it with a friend or family member.
- If you have an interest in weather, spend some time learning how to forecast the weather. How can nature provide clues about the upcoming weather? Summarize your findings for a friend or family member.
Sources of Wonder
- https://www.birdspot.co.uk/bird-brain/where-do-birds-go-in-the-rain (accessed April 9, 2020)
- https://ornithology.com/birds-flying-in-the-rain/ (accessed April 9, 2020)
- https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2010/04/rainy-days-stress-out-birds# (accessed April 9, 2020)
- https://www.farmersalmanac.com/bird-weather-lore-26433 (accessed April 9, 2020)
FAQ
1. Can birds fly in the rain?
Yes, birds can fly in the rain. Many bird species are adapted to fly in various weather conditions, including rain. Their feathers are designed to repel water, keeping them relatively dry and allowing them to maintain their flight capabilities. Additionally, birds have a strong muscle structure and excellent control over their wings, which enables them to navigate through raindrops and continue flying.
2. Do birds enjoy flying in the rain?
While it’s difficult to determine whether birds enjoy flying in the rain, it is a natural occurrence for them. Birds have adapted to different weather conditions over time, and rain is simply another part of their environment. Some bird species may even take advantage of rain showers to find food or cool off. However, it’s important to remember that birds may seek shelter during heavy rain or storms to protect themselves from strong winds or potential dangers.
3. Are there any risks for birds flying in the rain?
Flying in the rain poses some risks for birds. Wet feathers can make it more challenging for birds to maintain their body temperature, as water conducts heat away from their bodies. If birds become too wet, they may need to find shelter to dry off and warm up. Additionally, rain can affect their visibility, making it harder for them to navigate or locate food. Despite these challenges, birds have evolved to adapt to rainy conditions and continue their normal activities.
4. How do birds keep their feathers dry in the rain?
Birds have a natural waterproofing mechanism to keep their feathers dry in the rain. Their feathers are covered in a layer of specialized oils produced by a gland near the base of their tail. When birds groom themselves, they distribute these oils throughout their feathers, creating a waterproof barrier. This barrier prevents water from penetrating their feathers, keeping them dry and maintaining their ability to fly efficiently even in rainy conditions.
5. Can birds fly during a heavy rainstorm?
While birds can fly in the rain, heavy rainstorms may pose more significant challenges for them. Strong winds, reduced visibility, and the intensity of the rain can make it difficult for birds to maintain control while flying. During heavy rainstorms, some bird species may seek shelter in trees, bushes, or other protected areas until the rain subsides. These behaviors help them stay safe and conserve energy until the weather conditions improve.
6. How do birds find food in the rain?
Birds have various strategies to find food in the rain. Some bird species, such as robins, take advantage of rain showers to search for worms and insects that come to the surface. The rain makes it easier for them to locate their prey. Other birds may rely on stored food sources, such as seeds or fruits, during rainy periods. Additionally, birds may also use their excellent eyesight and memory to locate sheltered areas where insects tend to gather, such as under leaves or in crevices.
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