Birds are unique among all the animals in the world in having feathers. Their feathers have a lot of functions including providing protection to the skin, keeping them thermoregulated, and of course, allowing them to fly. Because of their importance, birds spend a lot of time preening and grooming their feathers. The preening keeps feathers in good condition, spreads oils necessary to keep them water resistant, keeps them clean of insects and dirt, and realigns the microscopic barbs that hold long feathers together. This little tufted titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor) had been enjoying an easy meal at the feeding station, and when finished, spent about 10 minutes on feather maintenance. He concentrated on each feather in the wings and tail and then worked on the chest and back as well. I love watching them groom themselves and I often wonder if a good preening session makes them feel as good as we do after a good shower or a hot bath.