Birds Use Live Ants as Pesticide

Over 200 bird species practice anting, a bizarre ritual where they rub live insects against their feathers. This acts as a natural hygiene routine, using the insect's own chemical defenses to kill parasites.

When a bird feels itchy, it might grab an ant and drag it across its wings or even roll around in an anthill. The ants release formic acid, a potent chemical that likely keeps harmful bacteria and mites at bay. Some scientists also think birds do this to make the insects safe to eat by removing their harsh acidic stingers. It is essentially a sophisticated, organic spa treatment performed entirely in the wild.