Can birds fly in the rain?

When it rains, the same principles apply. Strong winds and turbulent air during a storm can make it trickier to fly, but their feathers are quite waterproof and there is nothing inherent in the rain itself that prevents them flying. read more

Yes some birds can fly in the rain. most birds have oil on their feathers that makes them waterproof. although if a bird is out in the rain too long their wing feathers will eventually get wet. and then they have a hard time flying or can't. ducks and geese i imagine are better at flying in the rain because they are made for the water. but rain does tend to keep song birds from flying, especially long distances. i'm sure most birds can fly short distances in any kind of rain. read more

Rain, or even water vapor (humidity) takes up more space, resulting in even fewer air molecules. This is why birds perch before and during a storm – it takes a lot more energy to fly in rainy conditions and so they avoid doing it. They perch in a tree, in shrubs or wherever they can get some protection. read more

Birds fly by forcing air downwards with their wings. On the upstroke, the feathers pivot to let the air pass through them, but on the downstroke they close – similar to a venetian blind – and push against the air. When it rains, the same principles apply. read more

Water birds enjoy the rain, as much as they enjoy water below their feathers. Birds found on land are more weatherproof when it comes to light rains, but when rains get stronger, the natural reaction, like people, is to seek out shelter. read more