What Bird Is Only Occasionally Poisonous?

The quail is a bird that is only occasionally poisonous. During its migration between Europe and Africa each year, the Coturnix quail species becomes poisonous for just that period of time but only in specific flight patterns. If a quail is on a western flight path, it becomes poisonous in the spring while flying back up north, while eastern flight paths result in quails becoming poisonous as they fly south. It is not known why the quails become poisonous during specific parts of their migration routes, but it is thought they may eat something toxic during their flights. Consuming poisoned quail can lead to rhabdomyolysis, a condition that causes muscle degeneration.

More about poisonous birds:

• The little shrikethrush, a small bird native to Indonesia, Australia, and New Guinea, has a toxin in its feathers that is very similar to that of the poison dart frog.
• No bird species have been found to be poisonous through their bite.
• The hooded pitohui of New Guinea was the first bird species that was documented as being poisonous in 1989.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which bird species is known to be occasionally poisonous?

The Hooded Pitohui (Pitohui dichrous) from Papua New Guinea is known for its occasional toxicity. This bird harbors batrachotoxin, one of the most potent natural toxins, in its skin and feathers, which can cause numbness and tingling in humans upon contact.

How does the Hooded Pitohui become poisonous?

The Hooded Pitohui acquires its poison from its diet, which includes Choresine beetles, the same source of toxins used by poison dart frogs. These beetles contain batrachotoxin, and when the birds consume them, the toxin is sequestered in their skin and feathers.

Can the Hooded Pitohui's poison affect humans?

Yes, the poison from the Hooded Pitohui can affect humans. Handling the bird or its feathers without protection can lead to a tingling or burning sensation. However, it is not typically lethal to humans unless ingested in large quantities.

Is the Hooded Pitohui the only bird with poisonous traits?

No, the Hooded Pitohui is not the only bird with poisonous traits. Other species in the Pitohui genus also exhibit varying levels of toxicity. Additionally, the Ifrita kowaldi, another bird from New Guinea, is known to carry batrachotoxin.

Are there any benefits to the bird being poisonous?

Yes, the toxicity of the Hooded Pitohui likely serves as a defense mechanism against predators. The presence of batrachotoxin in their feathers and skin deters potential predators from eating them, providing a significant survival advantage.

How was the toxicity of the Hooded Pitohui discovered?

The toxicity of the Hooded Pitohui was discovered by accident when a researcher noticed numbness after handling the bird. Subsequent studies confirmed the presence of batrachotoxin, leading to a greater understanding of chemical defense mechanisms in birds.