Expert: Julia Booth - 8/19/2009

Question
Hi
I am in New Zealand. just found a sparrow on the lawn having spasms, it can't stand or fly and seems to be getting worse.
could it have been poisoned?
we have it inside where it is warm...
what can i do for this bird?
thanks

Answer
I don't know what the laws are where you live. Naturally it would be illegal to poison a bird in the US, except under very specific circumstances.

But if a bird is convulsing, poison is usually the culprit. Most likely is pesticides, since those would most quickly enter the bloodstream and do damage to the central nervous system. Convulsions are a result of this.

If that's the case, there is probably nothing you can do for it. I suggest calling your local wildlife rehabilitator or perhaps a vet. Given that you're not in North America, I don't have that information handy.

Hope this helps,

Julia