Sick wild birds ...

A wild bird can’t tell you when it feels sick. Birders who know how to recognize sick birds, however, can take steps to prevent spreading illnesses at their bird feeders ...

............. Sick birds, however, may show several symptoms such as:

Dull, unfocused eyes
Fluffed or rumpled feathers when it is not cold
Swollen eyes or membranes, such as the cere
Wet or crusty eye, mouth, or nose discharge
Dirty, matted feathers
Missing feathers
Visible injuries, lesions, or wounds ................


........... To help birds have the strength to recover, birders can:

Keep feeders clean to minimize contagion to other birds
Supply fresh seed with a high oil content for extra energy
Offer a variety of other healthy foods, such as nuts and fruits
Keep the feeding area safe from predators that may capture unwary birds
Supply clean water in ground dishes and bird baths for birds to drink
Dispose of dead birds properly to prevent spreading illnesses ..........