bathing

animal behavior

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Last updated

July 16, 2026

Quick Summary

Bathing and wallowing are common self-grooming behaviors among perissodactyls, which include equids (like zebras), rhinoceroses, and tapirs. Equids often create "rolling hollows" in dry soil for this purpose. Rhinoceroses wallow in pools, which may help regulate body temperature and is primarily a form of self-grooming. They may also engage in sand bathing and rub against trees or stumps after wallowing. Tapirs are known for their tendency to bathe and wallow, and they may enter water when disturbed. Bats are also meticulous groomers, spending significant time cleaning their fur and wing membranes.12

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anseriform
Behaviour
Bathing movements include dipping the head, beating the wings on the surface and, at high intensity, actual diving or somersaulting through the water. Sleep often follows such maintenance activities, the bill being turned and placed under the scapular (shoulder) feathers. Bathing is often a communal…
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Bathing movements include dipping the head, beating the wings on the surface and, at high intensity, actual diving or somersaulting through the water. Sleep often follows such maintenance activities, the bill being turned and placed under the scapular (shoulder) feathers. Bathing is often a communal…
Read More