Berries of all kinds can ferment from the repeated process of freezing and then thawing during warm periods.  Birds that eat those berries, notably Cedar Waxwings, can become drunk and stagger around on the ground; self-injury can occur when a bird is in this state. 

• If the birds are in a relatively safe place, leave them alone to recover. 

• If they are in danger from cars or predators, do what you can to move them to a safer place to recover.  Placing an inverted laundry basket over the birds until they recover can be helpful as well.

• If the bird is injured due to a car collision, cat attack, etc., the bird needs help;  transport as soon as possible to a properly permitted rehabilitator.

Poisoning—Birds that have ingested Amdro ant bait or other granular pesticides can appear “drunk”.  If you or your neighbors have been using these products and you see an impaired bird, you'll need to transport the affected bird immediately to a properly permitted rehabilitator for treatment.

If after reading the information above you believe you have found an injured or poisoned bird, safely transport the bird to a permitted rehabilitator.

Contributed by Beverly Guthrie

see complete article BIRDS, Those Backyard Jewels