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ANIMALS | Birds

Pigeons 'sitting like humans' go viral on social media


Isabella O'Malley
Digital Writer/Climate Change Reporter

Monday, February 11, 2019, 5:38 PM - Photos of animals acting like humans never disappoint, and the latest animal to be featured in this trend are pigeons.

Twitter users were elated to share various photos found online of pigeons resting with their feet out, seemingly relaxed and unbothered by people taking pictures of them. 

Reactions ranged from "my life is complete" to concern with some saying "they looked depressed."

What was missed in the conversation is the reason why the birds are sitting this way, and some say that this sitting position is sign that they are seriously sick, and even near death.



One cause of this symptom could be paratyphoid, which is a common pigeon disease caused by salmonella and can result in symptoms including joint inflammation and damage in the legs, limping, and flying on a crooked angle.

Avian Paramyxovirus type 1 (PPMV1) could be another explanation for some of these birds, as this virus includes symptoms of lethargy, ruffled feathers, and reluctance to fly. Once infected, the virus rapidly spreads in the pigeons body and can cause death in just 72 hours. 





While the odd behaviour made for some entertainment on social media, this trend can serve as a reminder that animals displaying unusual behaviour could potentially be sick with an infection that could be harmful to humans, and it is safest to keep your distance from the animal.

WATCH BELOW: 'BIRD-POCALYPSE' TAKES OVER THE SKIES ON A TEXAS HIGHWAY


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