What is the action of a bird puffing out, shaking, and then slicking back down its feathers called?

The action of a bird puffing out, shaking, and then slicking back down its feathers is known as rousing. This behavior serves several purposes, including maintenance of feather condition and body temperature regulation. When a bird rouses, it fluffs its feathers to create air pockets that can help insulate its body, especially in cooler weather. The shaking helps to remove dust or debris, and the final slicking down of the feathers ensures they are well-aligned, which is important for aerodynamics and insulation.

Preening refers specifically to the meticulous grooming process that birds engage in to maintain their feathers, often using their beaks to smooth and arrange the feathers. Hack usually refers to a form of training or a situation where a bird is left in a sheltered area, while gorge refers to the act of eating to excess. These terms do not describe the behavior involving the puffing, shaking, and slicking of feathers, emphasizing the distinct nature of rousing in avian behavior.