Bird (toy)

Birds are Nitpicker-like toys that debut in Mario vs. Donkey Kong. They fly around an area, dropping harmful eggs onto characters.

Mario vs. Donkey Kong
In Donkey Kong Jungle, they routinely spawn from nests and perform three complete flights across the level before disappearing off-screen. Once they spot Mario underneath, they drop an egg; getting hit by the egg or the Bird itself results in Mario losing a life. The eggs laid by Birds can be deflected with a handstand, while the Birds themselves are impervious to any attacks. In Fire Mountain, regular Birds are replaced by Firebirds.

Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2: March of the Minis
In Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2: March of the Minis, a single Bird appears in Jungle Hijinks, during the battle against Donkey Kong in Room 8-DK. It is more clearly depicted as a toy, with metallic-looking joints under its wings. It serves as an obstacle to the Mini Marios, swooping down on them if they are underneath it. Each time Donkey Kong is damaged, the Bird briefly increases in speed and drops eggs towards the Mini Marios. A Mini Mario can drop a Banana Bunch on the Bird to temporarily destroy it. The Bird reappears shortly after being destroyed.

Artwork of a Bird can be seen during the game's staff credits.

Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Minis March Again!
Birds reappear in Mario vs. Donkey Kong: Minis March Again! in the boss levels Floor 4 Donkey Kong and Floor 4+ Donkey Kong. They retain their behavior from Mario vs. Donkey Kong 2: March of the Minis.