Anting Behaviour in Wild Strigiformes? A Video-Case in the Little Owl Athene noctua

Abstract

Anting (using ants for grooming) is a rare behaviour pattern observed in birds. It is more common in Passeriformes than in other avian orders. Anting behaviour has been reported in only a few non-passerine species, or only doubtful observations have been reported, such as in the Strigiformes. Using a trail camera, we recorded a potential example of passive anting behaviour of a nocturnal raptor (Little Owl Athene noctua) in eastern Spain. This circumstantial record of apparent anting behaviour could be of significance, as it appears that Little Owl sometimes exhibits anting behaviour, which has not been previously documented. We think that some avian spreadeagled postures might have previously been misclassified as sunbathing because this behaviour has been poorly studied, whereas they may have actually involved anting behaviour.