August 31, 2024, 10:18 am | Read time: 5 minutes
Why do we so rarely see dead birds? PETBOOK explains how nature’s “recycling system” works, offers expert tips on dealing with dead birds, and reveals how to protect them.
Birds are a common sight in our gardens and parks. Yet, we often don’t notice when they die. This is because you rarely see a dead bird lying on the sidewalk or in the park. But why is that? PETBOOK asked Catherina Schlüter, bird conservation officer at Nabu. She provides important insights and explains how nature’s “recycling system” works and what we can do to keep birds safe.
Why you so rarely see dead birds
Native songbirds live on average for around five years, although life expectancy varies depending on the species. “In general, you can say that larger species live longer than smaller ones,” says Catherina Schlüter. “A common raven can reach an age of over ten years, while a blue tit often only lives for two to three years. Apart from songbirds, bearded vultures or white-tailed eagles, for example, can even live for several decades.”
Another reason we rarely notice dead or dying birds is their behavior. “Sick or injured birds are often restricted in their movement and behavior – for example, when flying with a broken wing – or stay in one place without a flight reflex,” explains Schlüter. They then seek shelter in dense bushes or hedges to hide from predators. Birds often flee to a hidden place, especially after collisions, for example, with glass. “The latter often happens in the case of glass collisions, where birds often suffer internal injuries and concussions,” says Schlüter.
In addition, weakened birds retreat to safe places to die. “They then often seek out bushes or hedges, as predators are less likely to spot them there. The dead bodies are then quickly consumed by other animals. Either by scavengers or they are decomposed by insects,” Schlüter continues.
Scavengers and insects: Nature’s “recycling system”
Scavengers and insects play a central role in the natural cycle. “Martens, foxes, mice, other birds, and even cats are scavengers and the natural waste disposal system. They ensure that the organic material, i.e., the bird carcass, is returned to the natural cycle,” explains Schlüter. Disposing of the carcass also prevents diseases from spreading. Insects also ensure that dead birds decompose in nature within a few days. “Insects, such as the burying beetle, are quickly on the scene,” says Schlüter.
Scavengers and insects work hand in hand during decomposition. “As a rule, it is an interplay of insects and scavengers that ‘process’ the carcasses together,” she adds. This natural “recycling system” ensures that remains disappear quickly and diseases do not spread.
Common causes of death: from predators to collisions
Birds die for various reasons. “Birds most often die either because they fall victim to predators such as cats or through starvation, exhaustion, and disease,” explains Schlüter. Glass panes are a particular risk for birds. The expert emphasizes: “Check whether dangerous glass panes that reflect trees, bushes or the sky could be a death trap for birds.”
How to protect birds in your area:
You can prevent glass collisions simply by making glass visible to birds, recommends Schlüter. This includes special markings and adjustments to windows. Never place feeders near such glass surfaces to avoid collisions. She also advises: “Free-roaming cats should not be allowed outside in the morning hours during the breeding season from April to July so that the young birds that escape from the nest have a better chance of finding a safe place.”
- Make glass panes safe: Mark windows with stickers or film so birds can recognize them.
- Position feeders correctly: Place feeders far away from glass surfaces.
- Keep cats indoors: Keep outdoor cats indoors if possible, especially during the breeding season.
- Ensure cleanliness: Clean feeding and watering places thoroughly with hot water regularly.
- Pause feeding: Temporarily stop feeding if deaths occur frequently.
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What to do if you find a dead or sick bird?
If you find a dead bird, you should act with caution. “As a rule, dead birds are disposed of naturally – with the help of scavengers or insects – so that they can be left where they are,” advises Schlüter.
However, you should safely dispose of the bird if it shows symptoms of illness. “If the bird was obviously ill, you can also put it in the residual waste wrapped in a plastic bag or send it to the local veterinary office with a short note,” she explains.
Tips for dealing with dead birds:
- Leave dead birds on site: Leave dead birds without symptoms of illness to nature.
- Dispose of sick birds: Pack them securely and dispose of them in the residual waste or report them to the veterinary office.
- Protective measures: Wear gloves to protect yourself from possible pathogens.
Important: You should not immediately take away young birds that appear sick or helpless. “Young birds that often stay put are usually not in need of help but have emerged from their nest and are waiting to be fed by their parents,” explains the expert. However, if they are in danger from pets, you can carefully place them in safe bushes.