The 12 dead blackbirds

[boxtops]

There was a mention on here a little while back about the 12 young backbirds who were found dead, and foul play might be suspected.

It now appears that it was alcohol poisoning - sad, but amazing, something I didn't realise could happen

http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/20180091

[ummmm]

I read somewhere that bees and wasps also get drunk.

[windywillow]

Aww, how sad is that. We've noticed the lack of blackbirds in our garden recently. We used to have loads but for the last few weeks, we haven't had one.

[hc4361]

30 odd years ago at Christmas I watched a fascinating documentary showing all sorts of animals getting drunk of fermented fruits - elephants, apes, bees. As far as I know it has never been repeated. Staggering elephants is a sight!

[ludwig]

// There are anecdotal reports of birds acting 'drunk' but these tend to be very rare //

I can believe it. The other day a pigeon accused me of spilling his pint and we had a fight. Later on he said I was his best mate.

[Maydup]

We have at least 8 blackbirds at any given time feasting on our windfall apples at the moment. Maybe we'll have to call last orders at 11pm!

[Brinjal]

Else's eat the Marla fruit and get drunk. Yes quite a sight. I remember reading an article some years ago about possums in a particular area in new Zealand that were found lying comatose on the side of the road. On investigation a large crop of marijuana was found growing not far from the highway and the critters were flat out stoned.

[boxtops]

LOL brinjal