“For example, jays are incredible mimics and will often mimic the call of a raptor, which confuses smaller birds (and sometimes birders). They use this to scare all the little birds away from feeders so they can have it to themselves,” Hannah and Erik told Bored Panda.
However, broadly speaking, birds aren’t acting like “jerks” intentionally. They are only doing what animals prioritize—their survival.
“The goal for animals is to survive and pass their genes on. So any actions that might be considered mean or ‘jerk-like’ are likely helping that bird to fulfill this purpose. Some birds tend to have more attitude than others, which could help them protect their territory, find mates, or chase off predators.”
The couple suggests watching a bird for a while and putting yourself in its shoes so that you try to figure out its motivations. Often, there are very rational reasons for them being “mean.”
#24 Black-Crowned Night Heron Flew Across The Pond And Stuck His Tongue Out At Me. Naughty Boy!!
Meanwhile, Isabelle Manseau, owner of Birdzy, told the Bored Panda earlier that birds can definitely behave in ways that people interpret as chaotic or jerk-like.
“One of the most chaotic examples is the behavior of seagulls in coastal areas. They are notorious for their bold food-stealing antics, often snatching food directly from people’s hands or even swooping down to steal snacks from outdoor tables," she said.
"Another example is the common grackle, which forms large, noisy flocks that can dominate bird feeders, pushing out smaller birds and creating a lot of commotion. Additionally, blue jays are known for their aggressive behavior at feeders, often scaring away other birds and even mimicking hawk calls to clear the area for themselves,” Isabelle explained.
#26 Can Someone Tell Me Why This Bird Likes My Car So Much And Keeps Pooping On It?
According to her, certain species are definitely more likely to behave in what we’d call mean ways.
For instance, European starlings, an invasive species in many regions, often outcompete native birds for food and nesting sites. Human beings see this as aggressive behavior. And yet, from the starlings’ perspective, they are doing what they can to survive and thrive.
Furthermore, house sparrows are also known for their aggressive behavior at bird feeders. They tend to chase other birds away so they can dominate resources.
Red-winged blackbirds are also “fiercely territorial during breeding season.” Isabelle explained to our team that they will “aggressively dive-bomb anything that comes near their nests, including humans and larger animals.”
#28 Bully Bluejay Takes Cardinals Spot. Cardinal Gives Blue Jay Death Glare While He Eats
The thing to keep in mind is that birds tend not to have the same emotional complexity as us, human beings. So, they aren’t “mean” in the same way that other people might be mean.
“Their behaviors are often driven by survival instincts, such as securing food, defending territory, or protecting their young. For example, a bird stealing food from another bird isn’t being ‘mean’ on purpose—it’s simply trying to survive,” she said.
“Understanding the motivations behind bird behavior can help reframe these actions as natural and necessary for their survival, rather than labeling them as ‘mean’ or ‘jerks.’”
The ‘Birds Being [Jerks]’ online group has been amusing the internet with funny bird photos since February 2013.
We want to hear your stories after you’ve upvoted your favorite pics in this list.
What kinds of birds do you most commonly see around your home and work? How friendly are they?
Are there any mean birds in your neighborhood that like to bully everyone around them? If so, have you managed to handle them gracefully?
Tell us all about it in the comments.
#35 He Dismantled His Perch, Stole My F9 Key, And Now He’s Laughing At Me
