Tufts Wildlife Clinic > What kind of animal is it? > Bird > How to tell if a bird is truly sick or injured
How to tell if a bird is truly sick or injured
If you find a sick or injured bird, please try to contact your local animal control, wildlife rehabilitator, or Tufts Wildlife Clinic for advice. The following are indications that an animal may be sick or injured:
- The animal is quiet, dull, the eyes may be closed, and it has fluffed feathers (the bird looks “puffed up”).
- It may have an obvious wound, breathing problems, a drooping wing, or show lameness or an inability to stand.
- It does not fly away when approached. Learn how to tell if a bird that doesn’t fly away is a fledgling (a young bird learning how to fly)
