Why would a pigeon be bloated, if it's not poisoned?

Question

Yesterday, when i was taking in the washing, i noticed a bird huddled in the corner of my garden. It was awfully bloated, just like the pigeon that flew into my bedroom and sat on my bed, where I discovered it, way back in 1997. The 1997 bird was bloated because it was poisoned. (thankfully, my bed was not sprinkled with bird... you know) So when I saw the 2008 bird didn't fly away, waiting resignedly for the final moment, looking at me, I knew straightaway that there was something wrong.

To the bird's surprise I didn't kill it. As my mother was out, I couldn't phone the police or the DSPCA. (being deaf, you see.) So I had no option but to frighten the bird again by giving it water and some bread.

By the time my mother returned, it was way too late for the phone lines.

This morning... the bird was still bloated and obviously had an injured wing. For those who want to know... I suspect it's a racing pigeon as its plumage was beautiful, and had tags on both legs.

Bird just flew off.

Answer 1

I was shocked to read about suicide pigeons being used, everyone should read this page

http://www.thechickencount.com/03-suicid...

Although it was 2005, who knows if they are trying it again.

I have looked trough many pigeon diseases and can't find anything ressembling bloating.

Answer 2

I had pigeons I helped from bird rescue,and the would puff up when tired or cold. Maybe he just needed some rest and food like you gave him.and now is back on his or her way home:) That was nice of you to do what you did!

Answer 3

I doubt this bird was poisoned.  Poisoning causes extreme disorientation.  It's horrible.   Sounds more like it was just exhausted and puffed up.  It may have struck a power line or branch, and was downed in your yard.

If the bird was a tagged racing pigeon, it's domesticated, and probably not very afraid of people.

If it flew off, it's injuries were minor.

Some communities use poison to control pigeons, but I find it to be ridiculous.  Sure, wild pigeons are feral, but the poisons are indiscriminant and will kill any animal who eats it.

Poisoning is pointless when people continue to feed the pigeons.  One group feeds them, and explodes the population, while another group uses poisons to kill the excess birds.  It's stupid.

Answer 4

Too much food perhaps.