What is preening in birds?

What is preening in birds?

• A. Preening is wing flapping for exercise
• B. Preening is singing to communicate
• C. Preening is diving for food
• D. Preening is the act of keeping talons and feet clean and tidy

Answer: (D)

Preening is the grooming behavior birds use to maintain their plumage. They run their beaks through their feathers, align the barbules, and spread oil from a gland near the base of the tail to keep feathers waterproof and in good condition, while also removing dirt and parasites. This upkeep keeps feathers healthy for insulation and efficient flight. The description that preening is keeping the feet clean and tidy is the closest fit among the options, since the other actions—wing flapping for exercise, singing to communicate, and diving for food—are different behaviors and not about feather maintenance.