For many songbird species, a regular dust bath is a way to condition their feathers. Not all birds do it, but it’s common in sparrow species, as well as robins, bluebirds, and wrens.

When a bird preens, it’s distributing oil secreted by a gland throughout its plumage. This oil keeps the feathers pliable, weather-proof, and ready for flight. But this oil can build up, making their feathers greasy and matted. When they take a dust bath, particles bind to the excess oil. After flapping around in the dust, they’ll fly up to a perch to complete the routine, fluffing out their feathers to shake off the excess. The bird now sports fluffier, more flight-worthy feathers.
~ Birding Hub Basics

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