[The possibility of inflicting additional lesions in the wounds by small birds]

Structural characteristics of the beaks of small birds are discussed in the context of trace evidence analysis for the purpose of forensic medical examination. Special attention is given to the additional morphological changes that the birds may cause in the previously inflicted skin wounds. The possible mechanisms of such lesions are discussed. It is recommended that these observations be taken into consideration for the purpose of identification studies. The signs indicative of particular lesions that can be attributed to the small birds' activities are described.