Little birds may peck a dead lion.

Once a powerful person or force has been defeated, even those who were formerly too weak to challenge it can attack, mock, or show contempt without danger.

The saying stresses that such boldness is possible because the former power can no longer resist. It may imply that attacks after a downfall are easy rather than courageous, but can also dismiss legitimate criticism as opportunistic.

Use it when minor opponents criticize, exploit, or disrespect someone after that person has lost power or protection. It comments on opportunism and the contrast between earlier silence and later boldness, but may sound dismissive of people raising legitimate objections.