Birds

Observe:

Observe the bird’s behaviour to understand if they are sick, injured, or in distress. Abnormal behaviour may include lethargy, difficulty flying, or visible injury.

Identify:

Learn to identify common songbirds in your area. Key characteristics include size, colour, song, and behaviour. Apps and field guides can help.

Signs that a bird needs help:

• Fledglings vs. Nestlings: Fledglings have feathers and can hop or flutter; nestlings are featherless and require care in the nest. If a fledgling is on the ground, its feathers are not fully developed. During this stage, which can take up to 7-10 days, the mother will feed it on the ground. Please do not intervene.
• Injury or Illness: A bird may need help if it demonstrates signs such as inability to fly, visible injuries (e.g., broken wings or legs), or closed eyes.
• If it is covered in bugs

Signs the bird may NOT need medical help:

• They are hopping around on the ground or they are a fledgling (see above).

Approach with Caution

Birds are sensitive and can be stressed by human presence. Approach calmly and quietly. Consult a wildlife rehabilitator for advice.

Protect Yourself

Use gloves if handling is necessary to avoid injury or transferring diseases. Be mindful of defensive birds or parents.

If necessary:

If a bird is in immediate danger (e.g., on a busy road), carefully move it to a safer location using gloves or a cloth.

Handling

Use a soft cloth to gently pick up the bird, avoiding contact with its wings and legs to prevent injury. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator for advice.

Avoid Disturbance

If you find a nest, avoid disturbing it. Keep pets and children away to prevent stressing the birds. It is also important to not remove trees or shrubs during nesting season and avoid destroying nests.

Housing

Keep the bird in a warm, quiet place. A small box with ventilation holes lined with soft cloth or paper towels can be used. Do not attempt to care for an injured or sick bird without professional help. Do not give food or water. Unfeathered baby birds need an external heat source – contact a rehabilitator for more specific instruction.

Note: It is illegal to care for wildlife. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator and arrange for transport as soon as possible once an animal is in your care.

Transport Safely

Place the bird in a well-ventilated box lined with soft cloth. Keep the box in a quiet, warm area of your vehicle.

Minimize Stress

Avoid loud noises, music, and smoking during transport to reduce stress on the bird.