Wildlife photography of a Bald Eagle in dramatic pose preening its feathers

Appearing to strike a dramatic pose for the camera, this Bald Eagle is actually preening its feathers. Most birds preen, which of course is a hygiene and maintenance practice that not only removes dirt and dust, but also returns the feathers into their optimal arrangement for flight dynamics. It also lubricates them with oils from the bird’s uropygial gland, which keep them flexible and waterproof.