Off Camera flash and Autofocus for Birds

I'm trying to reduce a birds flat look from a hot shoe mounted 580EX on top of a Rebel T3i. The trouble is I need the autofocus assist from the flash in low light situations. I just can't fine tune focus on a bird with my eyes.

Is there a way to autofocus the camera with the flash mounted off camera? Thanks.

What about using a hotshoe cord connection, that might work, as far as the flash is concerned it's still on the camera.

Or how about triggers like the YN622 or the Canon STE's?

I'd suggest asking this in the flash section.

Thanks Ken and Kirk.

the t3i does off camera flash control wirelessly.
it uses a flash from the on board flash to set off the off camera flash.
it needs to be in line of sight with the front facing flash though. So it is a bit limiting.

a hotshoe cord would probably work well and Ive thought about one but I need to buy or make a bracket to put the flash off to the side and up higher.

Let us know what you find out.

Thanks Jeremy. I've got the T3i and 580EX about 10 feet apart and to my side about 45 degrees. The wireless is working and firing the off camera flash. But I am having focus issues still. I'll continue my testing and learning.