These birds wear ‘ant perfume’ and scientists are still figuring out why

The secret lies in the ants

Many ant species defend themselves by releasing formic acid, a strong-smelling chemical. Scientists think birds may take advantage of this chemical, but exactly how it helps them is still unclear.

A natural way to deal with parasites?

One of the leading theories is that anting helps birds control feather mites, lice and other tiny parasites. The formic acid may make feathers less inviting to these unwanted hitchhikers or help reduce their numbers. However, researchers are still investigating how effective this really is.

It may soothe itchy skin

Another possibility is that anting provides relief during moulting, when birds shed old feathers and grow new ones.

Fresh feathers can irritate the skin, and some scientists believe the chemicals released by ants may help ease this discomfort.

Or perhaps it’s all about dinner

There’s another interesting idea. Because formic acid is part of an ant’s defence system, some researchers think birds deliberately make ants release the chemical before eating them. Once the defensive spray is gone, the ants may become easier—and more pleasant—to eat.

Nature still has its mysteries

No single explanation fully accounts for every case of anting. Different bird species may ant for different reasons, and it’s even possible that the behaviour serves several purposes at once.

Whatever the answer, anting remains one of nature’s most fascinating mysteries—a reminder that even common birds can have surprisingly unusual habits.