From World Bird Sanctuary
Gordon, the barred owl, might love sunbathing even more than Lewis, the bald eagle, from yesterday’s post. Barred owls go into full relaxation mode when they sun. They will sit down, go into a full pancake, and tip their head back for maximum sun coverage. Gordon will do this on warm sunny days even on his trainer’s glove. It can be a little tricky supporting an owl that is actively laying down on your hand!
Short Answer: We’re not totally sure. Working theories include any/all of the following: thermoregulation, vitamin D production, parasite removal, preen oil distribution, stretching, feather stiffening
Long Answer: Hot, Bothered, and Parasite-free: Why Birds Sun Themselves