A White-faced Ibis Bathing

 

For many years, I’ve watched the White-faced Ibis meticulously preen its feathers and admired its beauty and strength in flight. Yet, I have never witnessed it bath - until recently.

Just a few weeks ago, I was lucky enough to observe this rare moment. 

 

Emerging from the water, the bird shook itself with such vigor that a cascade of sparkling splashes surrounded it. Soaked and ruffled, it looked adorably disheveled—charming in a way I’d never seen before.

When the bathing was over, the ibis, soaked wet, its feathers clinging to its body, walked slowly toward the shore ready to dry off in the warmth of the sun.

Generally, life is good.