Remember:
A bird who does not fly away from an approaching human is usually seriously injured or has become too weak to fly from illness.
The degree of difficulty and the risk involved in attempting to rescue an injured wild bird depends greatly on the following:
A raptor (hawk or owl) that has been hit by a car and knocked unconscious is no problem to pick up, but the same bird can inflict serious damage with its sharp talons when alert.
- what kind of bird it is
- how big it is
- what’s happened to it
Handling Small Birds
In general, small birds are easier and much less risky to handle than larger ones. Most of the injured birds people find, primarily songbirds, are easily handled without gloves. A small towel can be used to pick them up and they pose little threat to their rescuers.Handling large birds
For larger birds, wearing gloves and eye protection is recommended. If it is a large bird with a sharp beak & talons, call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or local animal control to help capture the bird.A raptor (hawk or owl) that has been hit by a car and knocked unconscious is no problem to pick up, but the same bird can inflict serious damage with its sharp talons when alert.
Transporting birds
- Please use a cardboard box to transport the bird. Prepare the box by punching holes in the sides and lining it with a soft towel or t-shirt. DO NOT USE A WIRE BIRD CAGE!
- Approach the bird with caution. Again, please use caution with larger birds and raptors.
- Secure the bird by throwing a large towel or blanket over it. Gently but firmly lift the covered bird and lower it into the box. Close the box securely!
- Keep the bird WARM, DARK AND QUIET! Bring it to a licensed rehabilitator for help as soon as possible. Disturb as little as possible-DO NOT ATTEMPT TO GIVE IT WATER OR FOOD unless instructed to do so by a licensed rehabilitator. Please do not attempt to care for the bird yourself.