Seeing an injured bird on the ground can be a disheartening sight, and most people will want to help it. Unfortunately, unless you have wildlife removal experience or veterinary training, you probably have no idea where to start. If you are ever faced with this situation, below are some tips to help you assist the feathered creature.

How to Help an Injured Bird

1. Relocate It to a Quiet, Warm & Dark Location

To minimize stress and shock, which are the most common causes of death within the first 48 hours, your priority should be to stabilize the bird. According to wildlife removal experts, you can do this by placing it in a small, cardboard box lined with paper towels or a cloth that does not contain loops. Next, place a towel or shirt over the box to block out light but still provide airflow. Finally, carefully move the box to a quiet, dark room. 

2. Increase Warmth

While the snug box will help to keep the bird’s body temperature regulated, you can take further steps to keep it warm. If you have a heating pad, place half of the box onto it. This gives the bird room to move on and off of the warm area as needed. If you need to improvise, fill a plastic bottle with hot water—not boiling—and wrap a towel around it before placing it inside the box. However, if there is not enough room for both the bird and bottle to fit comfortably, lay the bottle next to one of the exterior sides.

3. Call a Professional

After you’ve done your best to minimize shock and stress, it’s time to call in the experts. A wildlife removal service is trained in the best methods for rehabilitating birds and similar animals. They will also have a system in place for releasing the animal back into nature once they are healed. 

If you find a wounded bird on your property, contact the wildlife removal experts at A.S.A.P. Critter People in Cleves, OH. They are trained on how to safely handle and relocate animals before eventually releasing them back into nature. They also know how to trap raccoons, squirrels, groundhogs, and other creatures known to invade homes and yards. To speak with one of their team members today about a pest problem or injured animal, call them at (513) 941-0258. You can also visit their website to learn more about their critter removal services.