1. Unusual Lethargy or Weakness
If a bird that’s usually active suddenly looks sluggish, something might be wrong. Wild birds are naturally alert and energetic—flitting between branches, foraging, and keeping a close watch for predators. But if you spot one that seems uninterested in its surroundings, barely moving, or struggling to take off, it could be a sign of illness. Bird flu often saps their strength, making even basic survival tasks exhausting. You might notice a bird sitting still for hours, puffed up as if trying to conserve energy.
Approach carefully and observe from a safe distance—if the bird doesn’t respond to noises or nearby movement, that’s a major red flag. Weakness can mean the virus is affecting its nervous system or respiratory health, making it harder for the bird to function. While it’s tempting to intervene, handling a sick bird can be dangerous due to the risk of spreading the virus. Instead, note its location and report it to local wildlife authorities. The sooner they’re aware of the outbreak, the faster they can take steps to contain it.
2. Difficulty Breathing or Gasping for Air
Birds don’t pant like dogs when they’re overheated, so any signs of labored breathing are worth noticing. If you see a bird with its beak open, breathing heavily, or making wheezing sounds, it could be struggling with a respiratory infection. Bird flu often attacks the lungs and airways, making it hard for infected birds to get enough oxygen. This can cause them to gasp, stretch their necks awkwardly, or even bob their heads as they fight for air. In severe cases, they may collapse from exhaustion.
A bird that’s struggling to breathe might also be less vocal than usual. If a normally chatty crow or songbird suddenly falls silent, it could be because their throat is swollen or inflamed. This symptom often appears alongside nasal discharge, sneezing, or excessive drooling—yes, birds can drool too! If you spot a bird exhibiting these signs, resist the urge to help it directly. Instead, inform local wildlife services so they can handle the situation safely.
3. Twisting Neck or Loss of Coordination
If you ever see a bird stumbling on the ground or flying erratically, something is definitely off. Birds are naturally agile, with incredible balance and precision, so clumsiness is not normal. One of the more alarming signs of bird flu is neurological damage, which can cause birds to lose control of their movements. They might walk in circles, tilt their heads at unnatural angles, or struggle to perch properly. Some birds even experience full-body tremors, shaking uncontrollably as the virus affects their nervous system.
Seeing a bird behave this way is heartbreaking, but it’s important not to interfere. Neurological symptoms mean the infection has likely progressed to a dangerous stage, making the bird unpredictable and possibly aggressive. While it’s rare, some infected birds may lash out in confusion or distress. The best thing to do is document what you see—video footage or detailed notes can help wildlife officials assess the severity of an outbreak in your area.
4. Swollen or Discolored Eyes
A bird’s eyes say a lot about its health. Healthy wild birds have bright, clear eyes that stay alert to movement. But when bird flu strikes, their eyes may become swollen, watery, or clouded over. Some infected birds develop a red or purplish tint around the eyes due to internal swelling. In severe cases, their eyelids might swell shut, leaving them effectively blind. This makes it incredibly difficult for them to navigate, find food, or avoid predators.
If you notice a bird rubbing its face against a branch or the ground, it could be trying to relieve eye discomfort. Other symptoms might include excessive blinking, tearing, or crusty discharge. These signs aren’t just uncomfortable for the bird—they also make it more vulnerable to other infections. If multiple birds in your area have swollen eyes, it could indicate a localized outbreak. Reporting these cases early can help prevent the spread of the virus to more birds.
5. Sudden Death Without Explanation
Perhaps the most alarming sign of bird flu is when birds start dropping dead with no obvious cause. If you notice multiple birds lying motionless in your neighborhood park, along a shoreline, or even in your backyard, don’t ignore it. Unlike predators or accidents, which leave visible wounds, bird flu kills silently. Affected birds may appear perfectly fine one day and lifeless the next. This rapid decline is a sign of an aggressive viral strain overwhelming their system.
Mass die-offs are particularly concerning because they suggest the virus is spreading fast. If scavengers like crows or gulls start feeding on infected birds, the disease can jump to new species. Even domestic poultry and pets could be at risk if they come into contact with contaminated carcasses. If you find a dead bird, avoid touching it. Instead, notify wildlife officials, who can test for bird flu and take appropriate action to contain the outbreak.
6. Unusual Feather Ruffling or Drooping Wings
Birds are meticulous groomers. They preen their feathers daily, keeping them smooth, shiny, and waterproof. But when bird flu strikes, even the most well-kept birds can start looking disheveled. Infected birds may stop preening altogether, leaving their feathers dirty, ruffled, or sticking out at odd angles. Others might sit with their wings drooping unnaturally, as if they’re too weak to hold them up. This is often a sign of extreme fatigue, muscle weakness, or joint pain caused by the virus.
If you see a bird looking unusually scruffy, observe it for a while. A slight breeze or damp weather can sometimes make a healthy bird look temporarily fluffed up, but a persistently ruffled appearance is a red flag. Some birds may also develop bald patches where feathers fall out due to stress or illness. While it’s normal for birds to molt seasonally, sick birds won’t have the energy to grow back healthy feathers. If a bird looks sickly and unkempt for days, it might be struggling with an infection.
7. Loss of Appetite or Difficulty Swallowing
A wild bird skipping a meal here and there isn’t unusual—sometimes they’re just being cautious. But if a bird repeatedly ignores food, struggles to eat, or avoids drinking water, something’s wrong. Bird flu can cause inflammation in the throat, making it painful or nearly impossible to swallow. You might notice a bird pecking at seeds without actually eating them, shaking its head as if trying to clear its throat, or even regurgitating food. Over time, this lack of nutrition leads to visible weight loss and weakness.
A bird that isn’t eating will also start acting sluggish, as it lacks the energy to move around. Watch for birds that seem uninterested in food sources they’d normally flock to. If you maintain a bird feeder, you might notice fewer birds visiting—or some arriving but not eating. A sick bird’s beak may also appear slightly open as if it’s struggling to breathe or swallow properly. Since food sharing is common in birds, one sick individual can spread the virus to others nearby.
8. Excessive Shivering or Seeking Warmth
Birds are naturally resilient to the cold, using their feathers to insulate against chilly weather. But if you see a bird trembling uncontrollably, puffing itself up excessively, or constantly seeking warmth, it could be a sign of illness. Fever is a common symptom of bird flu, and just like humans, sick birds may experience chills and shivering. Instead of perching confidently in trees, they might huddle in corners, press themselves against walls, or burrow into leaves for warmth.
Even in mild temperatures, an infected bird may behave as though it’s freezing. It may tuck its head under its wing for extended periods, remain motionless, or show little interest in its surroundings. This is especially concerning because wild birds need to stay alert to avoid predators. If a bird is prioritizing warmth over awareness, it’s likely in distress. If you notice several birds displaying this behavior, it could indicate that an outbreak is spreading in your area.
9. Strange Vocal Changes or Silence
Birds are some of nature’s best communicators. Whether it’s a melodious songbird, a chatty parrot, or a cawing crow, their vocalizations play a big role in their daily lives. But when bird flu sets in, their voices may change—or disappear altogether. Some infected birds develop hoarse, raspy calls due to throat inflammation, while others go completely silent. If a bird that normally sings suddenly stops vocalizing, it could be a sign that the virus is taking a toll on its respiratory system.
Pay close attention to birds that sound different from usual. If a flock of birds suddenly seems eerily quiet, it could mean they’re too weak to vocalize. Some birds might attempt to call but produce only faint, strained noises. Others may be experiencing shortness of breath, making it difficult to chirp or sing for long periods. Since many birds use their calls to alert others to danger, an unusual silence can be a warning sign that something isn’t right.
10. Swollen Feet or Limping
While bird flu mainly affects the respiratory and nervous systems, it can also cause swelling in other parts of the body—especially the legs and feet. If you see a bird limping, favoring one leg, or struggling to land properly, it might be experiencing joint pain due to infection. Swollen feet may look puffy or discolored, and birds may continuously shift their weight to relieve discomfort. In severe cases, they may stop perching altogether, opting to stay on the ground instead. Since birds rely heavily on their feet for movement, balance, and survival, any mobility issues put them at great risk. A limping bird is more vulnerable to predators and may struggle to find food. If you see multiple birds exhibiting foot swelling or lameness, it could indicate a spreading infection. While other diseases can cause similar symptoms, bird flu is particularly concerning because it spreads so quickly. Reporting these cases to local wildlife organizations can help track potential outbreaks before they worsen.
