What To Do If You Found Sick or Injured Birds of Prey

Protect Yourself

Wear gloves. When dealing with wildlife, a thick pair of work gloves can prevent personal injury. A net is very useful for capturing animals that will try to flee or fly.

Prepare a Container

A shoebox with air holes in the lid, lined with a small cloth or paper towel works for smaller birds, whereas a large crate or large box with air holes, lined with newspaper or a sheet/towel, will work for most large birds.

Put the Bird in the Container

Cover the bird with a towel, taking care to cover the head, keep the wings tucked into the body and avoid the talons. Gently put the bird in the box or crate and close it up immediately.

If You Can’t Transport It Immediately:

• Keep the bird in a warm, dark, quiet place.
• Do not give it food or water. Feeding an animal an incorrect diet can result in injury or death. Also, a captured animal will get food and water stuck in its fur/feathers potentially leading to discomfort and hypothermia.
• Do not handle it. Leave the animal alone. Remember human noise, touch and eye contact are very stressful to wild animals.
• Keep children and pets away from it.

Transport the Bird

For further assistance on where and how to transport, please refer to the "Who to Call for Help" section on this page.

During transport, keep the bird in the box or crate, and keep the car quiet (radio off).