It was very hot yesterday when I photographed this American Robin. The heat index was 109°F, I was melting. What do these birds do to help them handle the heat?
American Robin with their bill open on a hot summer day – Nikon D500, f8, 1/640, ISO 640, +0.3 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
My research shows that some of these help the birds:
Taking dips in water: American Robins will often bathe in birdbaths, fountains, or other water sources to cool off. Having moist feathers allows heat to dissipate quickly from their bodies.
Seeking shade: During the hottest parts of the day, American Robins will often retreat to shaded areas to avoid direct sun exposure.
Adjusting activity patterns: American Robins may become more active during cooler parts of the day, like early morning and evening, and take “power naps” during peak heat.
Panting: Like many birds, American Robins release heat by panting with their bills open, which helps vent heat and moisture. Many birds, including American Robins, use this method to cool down.
In some bird species they use a specialized form of evaporative cooling called gular fluttering. It involves rapid vibration of the throat and mouth areas (the gular area). This method is particularly effective and is commonly seen in birds like nightjars, pelicans, owls, ravens, cormorants, and herons.
American Robin on a sweltering hot summer day – Nikon D500, f8, 1/800, ISO 640, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
The American Robin I photographed kept its bill open the entire time it was in my view. It was extremely warm.
Robins aren’t the only perching birds I have seen with their bills open during the high temperatures of the day. I’ve observed Common Grackles, House Finches, House Sparrows, Blue Jays, and other birds panting in this heat. This coming week is supposed to be even hotter in this part of the country.
To help American Robins and other birds during hot summers, you can provide clean water sources like birdbaths and dripping water sources, maintain shaded areas in your yard, and avoid using pesticides that might harm their food sources.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my American Robin photos plus facts and information about this species.
Wonderful, albeit poignant, pics. The incredible detail you capture always amazes me and always will. I love your narrative too. You are a teacher as well as a wildlife photographer. Thanks Mia.
Sorry your first summer in your new home is so sweltering.
The poor American Robin. It’s 56 in Niagara going on 7am. The heat I don’t mind. It’s the humidity that gets to me.
Liz, the temp is 77F here right now with the humidity at 94%. Everything is damp outside simply because of the humidity!
We always have water available for the birds. And I feel for them in our often ferocious heat.