Top 10 Poisonous Birds in the World

By Sheetal Kumari | January 7, 2025

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Hooded Pitohui

This colourful bird from Papua New Guinea is loaded with batrachotoxin, which can cause numbness and tingling if touched.

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Blue-capped Ifrit

Found in New Guinea, its feathers contain batrachotoxins that can deter predators and harm humans.

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Little Shrikethrush

This unassuming songbird carries toxins in its feathers and skin, posing risks to those who handle it.

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Rufous Shrike-thrush

Similar to the Little Shrikethrush, its body contains batrachotoxins that serve as a natural defence mechanism.

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Variable Pitohui

This striking bird's feathers secrete a chemical that can cause irritation or mild poisoning on contact.

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Common Quail

Though edible, quails can accumulate toxic hemlock compounds, leading to "coturnism" if consumed during migration.

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Spur-winged Goose

Native to Africa, it may ingest toxic blister beetles, making its flesh dangerous to eat.

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Red Warbler

A beautiful yet poisonous bird, it secretes toxins to fend off potential predators.

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Northern Jacana

This waterbird may absorb toxins from its environment, making it hazardous for consumption.

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Eurasian Hoopoe

Known for its distinctive crown, it secretes foul-smelling, potentially toxic oil to deter predators.