antings
/ˈæntɪŋz/
noun
- A behavior in which birds rub ants or other insects on their feathers, possibly to use the insects' chemicals as a defense against parasites.
- The crow was seen performing antings in the backyard.
- Ornithologists study antings to understand how birds keep their feathers healthy.
- Some birds engage in antings by picking up ants and placing them under their wings.