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--- how_to_recognise_a_sick_bird [2025/10/16 14:39] – administrator
+++ how_to_recognise_a_sick_bird [2025/10/16 16:19] (current) – administrator
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 ====== How to Recognise a Sick Bird ======
-{{ :carrion_crow_colin.jpeg?200|}}Wild animals, and in particular birds, will try very hard not to show any signs of disease or of being unwell. This survival strategy makes it often difficult to actually notice that a bird is ill or injured. This common problem can lead to a delay in treatment, which sadly often means that with progressing time it becomes more difficult or even impossible to save the animal. To establish whether a bird is diseased or not, it is necessary to closely observe the animal in question, sometimes for a longer period of time. In any case, if the bird is not in immediate danger, then observing the bird from a safe distance is usually very informative. Whilst observing the bird, it might also be a good idea and the right time to get in touch with a local rehabber or wildlife rescue to obtain expert advice or assistance.
+{{ :carrion_crow_colin.jpeg?150|}}Wild animals, and in particular birds, will try very hard not to show any signs of disease or of being unwell. This survival strategy makes it often difficult to actually notice that a bird is ill or injured. This common problem can lead to a delay in treatment, which sadly often means that with progressing time it becomes more difficult or even impossible to save the animal. To establish whether a bird is diseased or not, it is necessary to closely observe the animal in question, sometimes for a longer period of time. In any case, if the bird is not in immediate danger, then observing the bird from a safe distance is usually very informative. Whilst observing the bird, it might also be a good idea and the right time to get in touch with a local rehabber or wildlife rescue to obtain expert advice or assistance.
 ===== Fluffed up Plumage =====
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 There are specific situations, when observation is not required and might even become counterproductive, as rescue attempts get unnecessarily delayed. More detailed descriptions of common problems and scenarios can be found in the following blog post. Also, [[how_to_help_cat_caught_birds|cat caught birds]] do not need to be observed at all, as they require antibiotic treatment in any case, regardless whether injuries have been found or not. It is very easy to miss tiny puncture wounds, which may remain invisible as they may not bleed externally. It is also very likely that the plumage is contaminated with saliva, and the next time the bird preens, he or she is likely to ingest deadly bacteria. More than 90% of all cats carry pasteurella multocida bacteria in their saliva, so the chances of a fatal infection are very high. Birds caught by cats will usually succumb to the septicaemia within 48 to 72 hours, unless they are treated promptly with adequate antibiotics.
-It is often difficult or sometimes even impossible to catch a poorly or injured bird in need of help. Trying to capture a wild bird is a delicate endeavour. One must be certain not to harm the bird or damage its feathers, as the plumage is the most valuable asset of a bird.
+It is often difficult or sometimes even impossible to [[how_to_catch_a_poorly_bird|catch a poorly or injured bird]] in need of help. Trying to capture a wild bird is a delicate endeavour. One must be certain not to harm the bird or damage its feathers, as the plumage is the most valuable asset of a bird.