Birds are known for their meticulous grooming habits, but some take it to the next level by enlisting tiny helpers. Staff at South Africa’s Umkumbe Bush Lodge recently captured rare footage of a hornbill engaging in “anting,” a fascinating behavior where birds rest atop active ant colonies and let the insects swarm their feathers.
While it may look like a scene out of a horror movie, this tactic has a practical purpose. Ants release formic acid as a defense mechanism, and birds take advantage of this chemical to rid themselves of parasites and other irritants.
“This assists with cleaning the bird of parasites,” the lodge explained. “Some birds absolutely love it.”
Anting isn’t unique to hornbills — many bird species engage in this practice, showcasing nature’s clever solutions to everyday challenges. And birds aren’t the only ones seeking assistance for cleanliness; other animals like sharks, rhinos, and warthogs also rely on partnerships with other species for grooming.
This footage reminds us of the ingenuity of animals in using the resources around them, proving that even in the wild, a little help can go a long way. 🐦