Keeping plumage clean for birds is very important not only for flight, but also for efficient thermal insulation. For this reason, many species take dust baths: sprinkling their feathers and feathers with earth and rubbing it away helps them eliminate parasites, dry skin and debris.
And in partridges, birds with a gregarious nature, these baths become a group bath, for a moment of relaxation but without ever letting one’s guard down: in fact, a sentry is always present and on alert.

Thanks to Gaia De Luca, ornithologist and naturalist, for the video and text.