What to Do If You Find an Injured Bird
What to Do If You Find an Injured Bird.
Learn what to do if you find an injured bird. Follow these step-by-step guidelines to help the bird safely while ensuring your own protection.
Finding an injured bird can be a distressing experience, but knowing what to do can make a significant difference in its survival. This guide provides essential steps and insights to help you assist an injured bird while ensuring your safety and the bird’s wellbeing.
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Step 1: Assess the Situation Safely
Before approaching the bird, observe it from a distance. Confirm that it is indeed injured and not simply resting or fledging. Some young birds, known as fledglings, leave the nest before they can fly and may appear vulnerable, but they are often under the care of nearby parents.
Signs of Injury Include:
Visible wounds or bleeding
Difficulty flying or standing
Limping or dragging a wing
Lack of response to stimuli
Safety Tip: Avoid sudden movements that may stress the bird further.
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Step 2: Protect Yourself and the Bird
Wear gloves or use a clean cloth to handle the bird to protect yourself from potential diseases and to reduce stress on the bird. Birds are fragile, and improper handling can worsen their injuries.
Precautions:
Keep the bird away from pets and children.
Do not attempt to feed or give water to the bird.
Minimize noise and movement around the bird.
READ ALSO: How Do Birds Lay Eggs? All You Need to Know
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Step 3: Contain the Bird
To transport the bird safely, prepare a small, ventilated box lined with a soft cloth or tissue. Place the bird gently inside and cover the box with a light lid or cloth to keep it calm and secure.
How to Prepare a Box:
Use a shoebox or similar container.
Poke small holes for ventilation.
Avoid using materials that could harm the bird, like cotton balls or loose threads.
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Step 4: Contact a Wildlife Rehabilitation Center
Reach out to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible. These professionals are equipped to provide the care and treatment injured birds need.
Finding a Rehabilitator:
Search online for wildlife rescue centers near you.
Contact local animal shelters or veterinarians for referrals.
Call national wildlife hotlines if available in your country.
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Step 5: Follow Up and Learn More
After handing over the bird to a professional, you may follow up on its recovery if the center allows. This is also a great time to learn more about local wildlife and how to prevent injuries to birds in the future.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Feeding the Bird: Feeding an injured bird the wrong food can cause severe harm. Only professionals should handle feeding.
2. Keeping the Bird as a Pet: It is illegal in many places to keep wild birds without proper permits.
3. Delaying Action: Immediate care is crucial for the bird’s survival.
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How to Prevent Bird Injuries
Install window decals to prevent collisions.
Keep cats indoors or supervised when outdoors.
Avoid using pesticides in your garden, which can poison birds.
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Conclusion
Helping an injured bird is an act of compassion and responsibility. By following these steps and seeking professional help, you can give the bird the best chance of recovery and reintegration into the wild.