What to do when you've found a bird.
- The most important thing to know when you find an injured bird is NOT to give it water. A bird's airway is located at the back of the throat, and when you attempt to give a bird water, you could potentially drown it.
- Place the bird in a cage, box, or pet carrier. Place this on a heating pad set to low. Be sure to provide some sort of bedding for the bird, whether it be paper towels, newspaper, or a rag. It's very important to make sure they are kept warm. If you situation does not allow for this, or you do not have a heating pad, do your best to keep the bird warm without overheating it.
- If you've found a raptor (a bird such as an owl or hawk) or a hummingbird, please disregard the next information and call us immediately. If you have any other type of bird, please offer it the following:
- Baby Birds: Take any dry cat or dog food, place it in water and wait for it to turn soft. Once the food is softened, take small pieces of the food and squeeze the water out of it so that it is moist but not dripping. You can then place the food in the birds mouth. This will give the bird moisture and protein at the same time, but avoids the risk of aspiration.
- Adult Birds: Because of the various diets that each particular bird eats, it is best to offer a small variety of foods. Seed, fruit, and moistened dog food (with water) can be placed before the bird and allow them to choose which most appeals to them.
- Call us at (623) 533-2348. Further contact information is located here. Young and sick birds will need specialized 24-hour care.
Please do not attempt to care for birds such as raptors or hummingbirds. They have very specific dietary needs and cannot survive on comercially available foods. Attempting to give ground beef, pork, or chicken could result in serious illness for the bird. If you are interested in caring for these types of birds, please consider becoming a volunteer.