Birds Behaving Badly: The Curious Case of Intoxicated Birds
What’s Happening to the Birds in Gilbert, Minnesota?
In the quaint town of Gilbert, Minnesota, something peculiar has been happening to the local bird population. Residents have reported birds flying erratically, crashing into windows and cars, and generally behaving in a disoriented manner. The culprit? Fermented berries.
Birds and Berries: A Tipsy Combination
Birds, particularly species like robins, thrushes, and waxwings, are known to feast on berries. However, when berries undergo fermentation, they become boozy treats for these feathered friends. Fermentation occurs when freezing temperatures convert starches in berries into sugars, creating an environment conducive to yeast growth. This process results in the production of ethanol, the intoxicating substance found in alcoholic beverages.
Consequences of Intoxication
When birds consume fermented berries, they experience similar effects as humans who overindulge in alcohol. They become disoriented, clumsy, and lose their coordination. This can lead to dangerous situations, such as collisions with solid objects like windows and fences.
Bird Deaths and Ethanol
Research has shown that bird fatalities can be linked to berry fermentation. In California, necropsies revealed that cedar waxwings had excessive ethanol levels in their systems after colliding with objects. Similarly, in England, common blackbirds were found to have high alcohol levels and fermented berry remains in their digestive tracts.
Helping Tipsy Birds
If you encounter an intoxicated bird, there are steps you can take to help:
- Do not contact law enforcement unless you witness birds operating vehicles or engaging in dangerous activities.
- Avoid touching the bird directly. Instead, use a towel or blanket to gently pick it up and place it in a ventilated box in a dark and quiet spot.
- If the bird does not recover within a few hours, contact a local wildlife rehabilitation center for assistance.
Preventing Collisions
To prevent intoxicated birds from colliding with reflective surfaces, the National Audubon Society recommends placing decals on windows and other large reflective surfaces. This can help them avoid crashing into these obstacles.
The Sobering Truth
Just like humans, birds need time to sober up from their berry-induced intoxication. As the effects of alcohol wear off, they will gradually regain their normal behavior and coordination. Time is the best remedy for a bad hangover, whether it’s caused by tequila or fermented berries.
Additional Tips
- Keep fermented berries away from birds to reduce the risk of intoxication.
- Educate others about the dangers of bird intoxication to help spread awareness.
- Support wildlife rehabilitation centers that provide care for intoxicated birds.
