Have you ever seen a bird around West Michigan that seems fine, but is covered in ants? What is the Purpose of Birds Anting? While the purpose of anting hasn't been scientifically proven, many experts believe that birds are using the ants for the formic acid that ants naturally produce. READ MORE: Can My Bird Feeder Put Other Michigan Birds at Risk of Avian Flu? There are many species of birds around the world that participate in anting, including many species that are found right here in Michigan.