Can birds get rabies?

Birds cannot contract or carry rabies. Rabies is specific to mammals such as dogs, humans, cows and deer. Cold-blooded animals such as reptiles, amphibians and fish cannot get rabies.

The rabies virus focuses on an animal's central nervous system. Animals with rabies exhibit drastic behavior changes. Some animals show increased aggression, while others become overly docile. Symptoms of rabies can include frothing at the mouth, choking, convulsions or even paralysis.

Rabies is potentially fatal to humans. If a person is bitten by a potentially rabid animal, medical help should be sought immediately. It is important to keep track of the animal responsible so that it can be captured and tested.