How do I know if the swift I found is unwell?
Possible symptoms:
- ruffled feathers, closed eyes, hunched back
- bird is shivering, feels cold
- bird clutches painfully tight to your hand in panic
- complete emaciation, feather-light, "skin and bones"
- injuries (wounds, blood, drooping wing, twisted limbs, etc.)
- blood from beak, nose, or ear
- throat white or gray instead of pink
- twitching, convulsions
- difficulty breathing, respiratory sounds, open beak
- screaming, whimpering sounds
A thorough examination of the found bird, preferably by a veterinarian, is necessary to determine exactly why the swift came down and to provide meaningful and targeted help.