Soggy Saturday

Boy, have we had a lot of rain the past couple of days! Today has started out much the same way. I'm hoping we may get a peek at the sun, and I think my bird friends are hoping, too.



This little black-capped chickadee took advantage of a break in the rain to dry off.



This is my favorite photo of the week:




The daddy downy woodpecker and his daughter huddled up under some tulip poplar leaves during the next downpour.



The mommy downy decided to brave the rain and take advantage of the empty spot at the feeder.


You might be surprised that they are able to fly with feathers so sodden. Birds usually try to find a sheltered spot under the leaves, but they really don't mind getting wet. In fact, after a long dry spell, many birds will come out in the rain to enjoy the showers. The outer feathers may get wet, but because of the way their feathers are designed, the down feathers stay dry. This allows them to fly in the rain. When they get a chance, they simply fluff their feathers up, shake the water off, and go on about their day. Most birds have an oil gland that they use during preening to smooth and further waterproof their feathers.

Do you enjoy view animal photographs? Check out the rest of the photos at this week's Camera Critters. Maybe you'd even like to participate with a photo of your own!