Something to Sing About. Last spring, in April I commented that the blackbird was singing inpired by its' own act of creation. Perhaps these were the four inspirations that s/he was singing about. The young blackbirds are indulging in the activity called "anting". And this one liked doing it away from the crowd ! When birds indulge in 'anting', they crouch over a bed of ants allowing them to crawl on to their bodies. The ants attack the parasites ridding the birds of unwanted pests. Must thank my sister and friend of hers, for making me aware of the birds behaviour. For more information see link to Bird Behaviour and Anting. Link to Pond Dipping in Epping Forest . Home