Sick pigeon with head bobbing and not eating. What to do before vet?

Hi, and thanks for your question. This is a quite generic but concerning presentation. Differentials are many, from gastrointestinal diseases (infection/inflammations often dietary related) to any disease that can spread systemically (causing lethargy for example) like infection, and anything that can cause pain/discomfort. An immediate check up at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

It's possible the bird may be injured or ill. If he still doesn't recover, even after eating and drinking and resting some, it is a good idea to contact a local wildlife rehab in your area. They may be able to come get the bird (or have you bring him to them) so he can be examined, treated for any issues, and safely re-released.

It would be best to try and bring the bird to your vet ASAP to have it treated as the eye and beak both look like there may be a pox or other sort of infection irritating it. You can use a clean washcloth to remove any debris from the eye to help keep it open and more comfortable. Making sure to keep the bird away from any other pets or people is also a good idea to prevent the spread of any illness until it can be treated by your vet.

If you've found a wild bird, the best course of action is to try and find a wildlife rehab near you that can take the bird in, especially if it is ill. Seeing if there are any vets that see wild animals near you is also a good idea. Since the bird is showing signs of illness, making sure to keep it separated from any other birds in a hospital cage, and washing hands and clothing coming into contact with it is best to prevent the spread of any illness. You can try to offer a mashed up baby bird food diet, however if it is unable to keep any food down, there could be an issue with the crop (infection, illness, obstruction) or GI tract that needs to be seen by a vet in person.

When wild animals no longer try to escape from humans, it generally means they are very sick. You may go online to see if there is an Audubon society or a zoo that will accept wild birds for treatment. Try to keep it warm and in a safe location. Put trays of food and water nearby. Offer birdseed and some fresh fruits and greens. Keep in mind, birds are very fragile and it may not make it. Best of luck and please feel free to post any additional questions.

Thanks for reaching out about Pukki and including photos. There are multiple causes of acute loss of legs including: spinal trauma, metabolic concerns (liver, kidney), infectious diseases (circovirus, aspergillosis), and more. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. For now, remove perches and provide a soft towel on which to sit. Ensure that food and water are within reach. Continue to syringe feed if needed. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out. A crop or other gastrointestinal infection, metabolic disorders or just plain individual preferences are possible. If acting ill, a veterinary visit is recommended. Otherwise, try limiting people food to see if this stimulated appetite for other food. Good luck.