Red-tailed Hawk 'Rouse'

Jake, a Red-tailed Hawk and Raptor-in-Residence here at the Alaska Raptor Center, showing off a “rouse”.

Birds rouse by raising their feathers away from the body, shaking them out, and rearranging them. Often this behavior is performed during grooming, after a bath, or just when the bird feels content and relaxed. Rousing clears the plumage of any debris or excess water!