Cooling off (I guess)

[Tom Barry]

This black-capped chickadee spread out on the sun-drenched railing of our deck in 100-degree F temperature this afternoon. The bird was just above our fountain, but I know it had not been taking a bath. I've seen other birds and squirrels do this, but after the shade had reached the railing, not while it was baking in the heat. Anyhow, I thought it was interesting behavior:
Cooling off (I guess) by tombarry975, on Flickr

[Panama Hat & Camera]

I can not imagine the reason for this unusual behavior. After that, did the bird fly normally?
Nice capture!
Cheers,
Antonio.

[Tom Barry]

Yes, it just sat up, looked around, and flew into the trees.

[RandyRFJP]

I believe the bird is in a typical "anting" posture, which I find to be a very interesting evolutionary trait. Among other things, it's a way for certain species of birds to rid themselves of small parasites and other "unwanted" guests.

See: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anting_(bird_activity)

[Tom Barry]

Thanks, Randy, for the very interesting response. I'd never heard of "anting" before, but it certainly makes sense.

[FootLoose]

Good capture, Tom. If I had seen the bird do that I would have assumed it was on its last legs.