Make sure you wash your hands well after handling any animal! Wildlife rescue services usually can't offer pick up, so you may need to transport the casualty yourself. If you are unsure about what to do, or are unable to get the casualty specialist care within an hour or two, speak to an animal welfare organisation like the RSPCA for advice.

Don’t offer food or water without being advised by an expert to do so.

If it begins to pant, remove the heat source immediately. Keeping the bird in the dark helps reduce stress, and a source of heat can help with shock. You can wrap a hot water bottle in a towel and place it inside or next to the box, making sure the bird can get away from the heat if it wants to. Large birds: It is best to call an expert rescuer as larger birds are capable of inflicting some damage to anyone trying to handle them.Ĭhoose an adequately sized box so that the bird can move around, line it with tissues, and make sure it has a cover and air holes.Medium birds: Use two hands, each covering a wing.

Small birds: Can be firmly held in one hand, positioning the hand over the bird so that its head is between your fore and middle fingers, letting the rest of your fingers naturally wrap around the wings.Take care!īirds will usually be more comfortable with their wings held against their bodies, feet supported. Think about the size of the bird before you attempt to handle it: Having answered the questions above, if you have decided to intervene, here are some things to consider in preparing to catch, handle and care for the bird while you seek expert advice.

Finch rescue birds