The uropygial gland, located near the base of a bird's tail, secretes oils that birds use to preen their feathers, which helps maintain their condition and protect against parasites. Recent ...

Using a telephoto lens to isolate the bird, Arthur framed his shot tightly. He captured the anhinga using its strong, dagger-shaped bill to secrete oil from its preen gland, spreading it onto its ...

The gland releases an oily mixture ... Once in a while, the bird distributes saliva on its feathers instead of preen oil, and the oil-loving ends stick to the feathers, leaving the water-loving ...