How to Care for Wild Birds with Injuries That Prevent Flight

You may feel compelled to help when you spot an injured bird, but attempting to care for it on your own is often illegal. The best solution in such cases is to call for assistance before you try to pick up the bird or after you place it in a safe box.

Check the bird's age. It's easy to mistake a young bird in need of help for one that is learning to fly. Observe the bird from a distance to assess whether it's genuinely injured and has been abandoned by its parents.

• Look for feathers. If the young bird has feathers, it is likely in the process of learning to fly.
• If the bird is uninjured, return it to its nest. If the bird feels cold, warm it gently in your hands before placing it back in the nest. The parents will continue to care for the chick without concern for your scent.
• If you can't locate the nest, place the bird in a hidden spot away from dogs and cats. For example, you can set it in a bush or on a tree.

Look for open wounds on an adult bird. If you spot an open wound, this is a clear sign that the bird requires assistance, and it's time to step in and help.

Check for any signs of blood. Blood is another indicator that the bird might be in trouble. Whether you notice droplets of blood or dried blood, it's a signal that the bird needs help.

Observe its movement. If the bird is struggling to walk or fly, it's likely suffering from a severe injury and requires immediate attention.

Consider alternative measures. The safest approach is to let the bird rest in one spot until you can contact a professional. Larger birds, such as eagles, can be dangerous if you don't know how to handle them.

Prepare a box. Use a cardboard box and create a few ventilation holes. Line the bottom of the box with soft material such as a towel. If the bird is larger, you can use a pet cage, such as a cat carrier. The best way to keep the bird in a dark and quiet environment is by covering the box or cage with something, like a towel.

• However, avoid using a wire mesh cage, as it may harm the young bird.

Set up a heat source. You can use a heating pad (set to a low temperature) or a hot water bottle in a sealed bag. If using a heating pad, place it on top of the box. If using a hot water bottle, wrap it in fabric and place it inside the box with the bird.

Wear gloves. Even though the bird is small, it can still hurt your hands. Equip yourself with thick gloves before attempting to assist the bird.

Cover the bird with a cloth or blanket. Before moving the bird, cover it with a fabric to avoid startling it and causing unnecessary panic.

Pick the bird up gently. Even if injured, a startled bird can be dangerous to both you and itself. Its instinct to defend itself may kick in.

Place the bird in a box, securing the lid tightly and covering it with a cloth. While you prepare for the next steps, keep the bird in a warm and quiet place. Ensure that your pet stays away from the area where the bird is resting.

Wash your hands. Even if you're wearing gloves, always wash your hands and arms after handling wild animals, as they may carry bacteria and diseases.

Avoid trying to feed the bird. There's a high chance you might offer the wrong type of food. You can provide water for the bird to drink on its own, but don't try to force-feed it. This way, the bird can drink water even if it's dehydrated.

Find a wildlife rescue specialist. This is crucial because wildlife experts know how to care for animals like the bird you've found. You can often find a list of wildlife rescue specialists on local wildlife websites or through state authorities. Veterinarians can also provide guidance.

• In fact, attempting to rehabilitate wildlife or birds without expert support, especially by someone without proper licensing, is illegal. Birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and owning wild birds without a permit is against the law.

Seek expert advice on bird care. A specialist will guide you on how to properly care for the bird or inform you that the best course of action is to take the bird to a licensed professional. Either way, you'll know what steps to take next.

Bring the bird to a wildlife rehabilitation expert. Birds require specialized diets and care, and wild birds often do not adapt well to captivity conditions.

Understand the next steps. A rehabilitated animal will face one of four possible outcomes. The best scenario is that the bird, after recovery, will be released back into the wild. If it cannot be released, it will be sent to an appropriate facility and used for educational purposes. The two less favorable outcomes are that the bird may either die or fall into a coma due to severe injuries.

Apply for a permit. If you wish to keep the bird, you must obtain a permit, as keeping wild animals without one is illegal. You can apply for the necessary documents through local authorities.

• To get a permit, you must complete the application form from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for federal approval and submit a form to the state authorities as well.
• To be allowed to rehabilitate animals, you need to have the required knowledge and expertise in wildlife care. You will be asked to provide details on your experience and training methods for animal care.

• The general rule when interacting with most wild animals is to avoid touching them. If you accidentally make contact, be sure to clean the area you touched with soap and warm water.