When observing a bird lying flat on the ground, it can initially appear alarming. This posture, however, is often a completely normal and beneficial behavior for birds. While it might look as though the bird is injured or in distress, various natural activities lead birds to adopt this position, contributing to their overall health and well-being.
Common Explanations for the Behavior
One frequent reason birds lie flat is for sunbathing, a behavior that serves multiple purposes. Birds use solar radiation to regulate body temperature, especially on cooler days or in early mornings.
Sunbathing also plays a significant role in feather maintenance and parasite control. The sun’s warmth makes preen oil, secreted from a gland near the tail, less viscous, aiding waterproofing and flexibility. UV rays deter or kill external parasites like mites and lice, or make them easier to remove through preening. Some birds, such as pigeons and doves, are frequently observed lying down with wings spread while sunbathing.
Another common behavior that involves lying flat is dust bathing. Birds do not sweat, so dust bathing helps maintain feather cleanliness and remove excess oils. This involves agitating their bodies in loose soil or dust, allowing particles to bind with oils and debris. After a dust bath, birds typically shake off the excess, leaving their feathers fluffier and more aerodynamic. This practice is particularly common in arid regions where water sources for bathing might be scarce.
Birds might also lie flat to cool down when temperatures are high. By pressing their bodies against a cooler surface, they can dissipate excess body heat. While birds primarily cool through panting, seeking cool ground is another behavioral adaptation. This can be observed in various species, particularly on hot days, as they try to regulate their internal temperature.
When to Be Concerned
While lying flat can be a normal behavior, certain accompanying signs suggest a bird might be ill or injured, requiring attention. A bird that appears visibly injured, perhaps with a drooping wing, an inability to stand, or obvious bleeding, likely needs assistance. Additionally, labored breathing, prolonged panting when temperatures are not extreme, or a general lack of responsiveness are indicators of distress.
A bird that does not attempt to move away when approached, or one that can be easily picked up, is often in a compromised state. Fluffed feathers can sometimes indicate a bird is attempting to warm itself when sick, differing from the fluffed posture seen during sunbathing. Other concerning signs include closed eyes, dullness, or a general lethargy, suggesting the bird has been sick for an extended period.
Observing and Responding
If you encounter a bird lying flat, it is generally best to observe it from a distance first, without disturbing it. This allows the bird to continue its natural behavior if it is merely sunbathing or dust bathing. Approaching too closely can cause undue stress, potentially forcing the bird to abandon a beneficial activity or exacerbating its condition if it is already unwell.
If, after observation, the bird exhibits signs of injury or illness, contacting a local wildlife rehabilitation center or a veterinarian specializing in wildlife is the recommended course of action. These professionals possess the necessary expertise and equipment to provide appropriate care. It is important to avoid attempting to handle the bird yourself unless specifically instructed by a wildlife expert, as this can cause further injury to the bird or pose risks to human health. Always prioritize your safety and the bird’s well-being by seeking professional guidance.