Birds

[4getmenot]

We all know birds need water to clean themselves and drink in the hot weather. But I was wondering when the mother takes her chicks worms and other food how do they get any water to them?

[Catso]

A good question.

I don't think what you might call 'ordinary UK' birds do take water to their chicks. I guess they rely on the water content of their food. Worms and bugs probably have quite a high water content. The chicks aren't very active, either.

But I do remember seeing a bird on a wildlife program (probably in a desert) that took water to its chicks by soaking its breast feathers in water and then letting them suck on the feathers.

[Cetti]

Yes, Catso is right. They have all the moisture they need in their food.

Forgive me for going off topic but I've just seen something adorable in my garden. Four baby sparrows just standing in the bird bath looking bewildered and a bit nervous. Mother sparrow appeared and showed them how to flap their little wings in the water to clean them, then gave them a drinking lesson.

[heathfield]

Saw the same program, Catso. The birds were hawks that live on the desert coast in Ethiopia.