If you see a bird that is injured, you will want to help it. However, in general, catching and caring for birds is illegal. Therefore, the best thing to do is to seek help, either before you try to carry it or after you store it in a safe place.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Determining whether the Bird Needs Help or Not
Step 1. Check the age
You may mistakenly think that a baby bird learning to fly needs help. Watch the bird from a distance for a moment to determine if it is injured or has been abandoned by its mother.
- Look for the hair on his body. If it's feathered, the baby bird is probably learning to fly.
- If it's not injured, you can put the unfeathered baby bird back in the nest. If the bird feels cold, warm it in your hands before putting it back in the nest. The scent of your hands won't bother the parents and the baby birds will be fed like any other sibling.
- If you don't see a nest, place the bird in a location hidden from cats and dogs, such as in a bush or tree.
Step 2. Look for open wounds
An open wound is an indication that an adult bird needs help and you may need to save it.
Step 3. Check if the bird is bleeding or not
Blood is another indication that the bird is having problems. If it bleeds or you notice dried blood, the bird may need help.
Step 4. Check the movement
If it's having trouble standing or flying, the bird is in serious trouble and needs help.
Step 5. Consider the solution
It's best to leave the bird alone until you can get help from the authorities. Large birds, such as eagles, can cause serious injury if you don't know what to do.
Part 2 of 3: Taking Birds
Step 1. Prepare a box
Use cardboard, and punch holes in the cardboard for ventilation. Place a soft textured object, such as a towel, on the bottom. You can also use other types of animal baskets, such as cat baskets, if the bird is large enough. Cover the cage or box (with a towel for example) because the animal should be kept in a dark and quiet place.
However, do not use baskets made of wire, as this can injure the bird
Step 2. Prepare the heater
You can use a heating pad (which is set to a low temperature), or a sealed bag or glass jar filled with hot water. If you are using a heating pad, place it outside one side of the box. If you are using a sealed bag, wrap the bag in a cloth, and place the bag in the box.
Step 3. Put on gloves
Even small birds can injure your hands. Before trying to help the bird, wear thick gloves.
Step 4. Cover the bird with a towel or blanket
Before trying to move the bird, cover the bird with a cloth to help soothe it.
Step 5. Gently lift the bird
Even if it's injured, the bird can still hurt you and itself if it's startled. Birds are also likely to fight back.
Step 6. Put the bird in the prepared box
Close the box and cover with a towel. Keep the bird in a warm, quiet place while you take the next steps. Also make sure the place is not accessible to your pets.
Step 7. Wash your hands
Since wild animals can transmit bacteria and disease, you should wash your hands before and after handling them, even after wearing gloves.
Step 8. Try not to give the bird food or drink
You are likely to give the wrong food. Small birds can also die if they drink the wrong water.
Part 3 of 3: Taking Care of Birds
Step 1. Find an agency that rehabilitates wild animals
This is important because the agency will know exactly how to care for wild animals, such as the birds you find. You can usually find a list of local nature conservation agencies on the government's official website. You can also contact your veterinarian for recommendations.
In fact, it is illegal to rehabilitate wild animals or birds without the help of a licensed expert. In the United States, birds are protected by law. Catching and possessing birds without a license is illegal
Step 2. Find information on how to care for the bird
The agency that rehabilitates wild animals may tell you how to care for the bird, or advise you to take it to someone who is licensed to care for it. That way, you'll know what to do next.
Step 3. Refer the bird to a licensed wildlife rehab specialist
Birds have different food and care needs. Wild birds are also not able to adapt well to capture.
Step 4. Understand what will happen to the bird
Rehabilitated animals will experience several possibilities. The best chance is when the bird recovers and can be released back into the wild. If release to the wild is not possible, birds will be cared for in appropriate places and used for education. Another unpleasant possibility is that the bird may die from its condition or be euthanized if the injury is too severe.
Step 5. Create a license
If you insist on caring for the bird, you must obtain a license. This is because keeping wild animals without a permit or license is illegal. You can apply for it through the official process through the local government.
