What to Do If You Find an Injured Bird

Finding an injured bird can stop you in your tracks. I still remember the day I discovered a stunned cardinal lying motionless beneath my living room window. My heart sank as I watched its tiny chest rise and fall rapidly, its normally vibrant feathers dulled by shock and distress. That moment of panic and uncertainty is something many of us experience when confronted with wildlife in trouble.

Each year, millions of birds suffer injuries from window collisions, predator attacks, car accidents, and severe weather events. What you do in those critical first moments can make the difference between life and death for these vulnerable creatures. 

This comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly what to do if you find an injured bird—from proper assessment to safe transport—ensuring you can provide the best possible chance for recovery.

How to Determine If the Bird is Injured

Before leaping into action, it’s crucial to determine whether the bird truly needs your help. Not all birds that appear to be in trouble actually require human intervention, and sometimes our well-intentioned efforts can do more harm than good.

Signs of Injury in Birds

Look for these telltale indicators that a bird is genuinely injured or in distress:

• Visible physical trauma: Broken wings that appear twisted at odd angles, bleeding, open wounds, or missing feathers in patches
• Mobility issues: Complete inability to fly, limping, dragging a wing, or favoring one leg
• Unusual posture: Sitting still for extended periods, constantly fluffed-up appearance (beyond normal preening), head tilting at strange angles, or wing drooping
• Behavioral signs: Allowing you to approach closely (wild birds typically flee from humans), spinning in circles, or seeming disoriented
• Eye abnormalities: Closed or swollen eyes, discharge, or asymmetrical appearance

A stunned adult bird from a window collision might appear lifeless initially but could recover if given time and proper care. These wounded birds often display shallow breathing and may seem completely inactive except for subtle chest movements.

Common Causes of Bird Injuries

Injury Cause	Signs to Look For	Prevalence
Window collisions	Bird found near glass, stunned appearance, neck injuries	300M-1B birds annually in US
Predator attacks	Puncture wounds, missing feathers, blood	Very common in fledgling season
Car accidents	Found near roadway, wing/leg injuries	Millions annually, higher in migration seasons
Weather events	Found after storms, wet/matted feathers, hypothermia	Seasonal, severe during extreme weather
Poisoning/toxins	Tremors, unusual breathing, disorientation	Increasing in urban/agricultural areas

“Window collision victims represent one of the largest categories of bird injuries we treat. Even buildings that appear harmless to humans can be deadly obstacles to birds who don’t perceive glass as a barrier.” — NYC Bird Alliance rehabilitation specialist

When to Leave a Bird Alone

Sometimes the kindest action is no action at all. Here are situations where birds are often better left undisturbed:

1. Fledglings learning to fly: Young birds spend a few days on the ground as they develop flight muscles. They appear vulnerable but typically have parents nearby watching and feeding them. These awkward teenagers of the bird world often have shorter tails and slightly fluffy appearance.
2. Nesting birds: Some ground-nesting species may fake injuries to draw predators away from their nests—a behavior called “distraction display.” If a bird appears injured but then moves well when approached, it might be protecting nearby young.
3. Molting birds: During feather replacement, some birds may appear ragged or partially bald but aren’t actually injured.
4. Brief recovery after minor impacts: Some birds that hit windows may appear stunned but recover within 15-30 minutes if left in a safe place.

How to distinguish fledglings from injured birds:

• Fledglings: Short tail feathers, some downy fluff, able to hop and flutter, usually very vocal
• Injured birds: Asymmetrical wings, visible wounds, extreme lethargy, closed eyes, silent or unusual vocalizations

Where to Place an Injured Bird

Once you’ve determined a bird genuinely needs help, finding the right temporary location is critical. Improper placement can increase stress and worsen the bird’s condition.

Immediate Safe Location Considerations

The primary goal is to create a safe, stress-reducing environment while you arrange for professional help. Consider these critical factors:

• Predator protection: Keep the contained bird away from pets, children, and potential predators that might cause additional stress or harm. Even the scent or sound of predators nearby can cause fatal stress to an already compromised bird.
• Temperature regulation: Injured birds often struggle to maintain body temperature. Place them in a space that’s warm (75-85°F) but not hot. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources that could cause overheating.
• Minimal stimulation: Choose a quiet location away from televisions, loud conversations, or foot traffic. Excessive noise and movement can trigger dangerous stress responses in injured birds.
• Proper ventilation: Ensure adequate airflow without drafts that could chill the bird. Avoid placing the container near air conditioning vents, open windows, or fans.
• Darkness: Covering the container (while ensuring ventilation) helps reduce visual stimulation and can calm an injured bird. Darkness mimics natural healing behavior, as hurt birds often seek secluded, shadowy places.

Creating a Temporary Bird Sanctuary

You don’t need specialized equipment to create an effective temporary haven for an injured bird. Here’s how to transform common household items into a bird-friendly recovery space:

1. Select an appropriate container: A cardboard box with a lid works well for most birds. The size should allow the bird to stand and turn around but not large enough for it to thrash about and cause further injury. For tiny birds like hummingbirds, a paper bag can work in a pinch.
2. Prepare proper bedding: Line the bottom with a clean, soft cloth (an old t-shirt or pillowcase works well) or paper towels. Avoid using materials with loops or threads that could entangle the bird’s feet or beak. Never use cotton balls, which can wrap around limbs and cut off circulation.
3. Ventilation modifications: Punch small air holes in the container if using a solid box. For cardboard boxes, you can leave tiny gaps in the closure to allow airflow while keeping light minimal.
4. Heat source (when needed): For birds showing signs of shock or cold stress, place a heating pad set to LOW under half of the container (never inside) or a warm (not hot) water bottle wrapped in a towel beside the container. This allows the bird to move closer or farther from the heat as needed.
5. Secure the enclosure: Ensure the container can be fully closed but not airtight. A box with a folded-over top works well, secured with a light object that won’t completely seal it.

What NOT to Do With an Injured Bird’s Location

Avoid these common mistakes that well-meaning rescuers often make:

• Don’t place the container near windows: Even inside a box, birds can sense and become stressed by the presence of potential predators outside.
• Avoid the garage or basement: These areas often have temperature fluctuations, chemical fumes, and potential pest issues that can harm an already compromised bird.
• Never leave the bird uncontained on a towel: Even severely injured birds can muster surprising energy when frightened and may injure themselves further trying to escape.
• Don’t position near strong odors: Avoid placing the bird near cooking areas, cleaning supplies, scented candles, or cigarette smoke, as birds have sensitive respiratory systems.
• Don’t continuously check on the bird: Each time you peek inside, you risk causing additional stress. Limit monitoring to when absolutely necessary.

How to Contain and Secure an Injured Bird

Proper handling techniques are essential to prevent further injury to the bird and protect yourself from potential scratches or bites.

Safe Capture Techniques

Before attempting to handle any injured bird, gather these supplies:

• Clean cloth or small towel
• Cardboard box with lid or paper bag
• Gloves (if available)
• Scissors (to cut away any entanglements if necessary)

Step-by-step approach to safely contain the bird:

1. Prepare your container first: Have your box or bag ready and open before approaching the bird.
2. Protect your hands: If possible, wear gloves. If unavailable, wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling the bird.
3. Approach strategically: Move slowly and quietly from behind the bird when possible, as birds have excellent forward vision but poorer rear vision.
4. Use proper covering technique: Gently drop a light cloth over the entire bird to reduce visual stimulation and prevent escape attempts.
5. Secure with proper hand position: Through the cloth, gently cup your hands around the bird’s body, keeping wings in their natural closed position against the body. For larger birds, support the body while controlling the head (from behind) to prevent bites.
6. Transfer carefully: Lift the cloth-wrapped bird and place it gently into your prepared container.

“The most common mistake people make is gripping too tightly when containing an injured bird. Birds have extremely efficient respiratory systems that can be easily compromised by excessive pressure on their chest cavity.” — Wildlife rehabilitation expert from Wild Bird Fund

Temporary Housing Options

Different species and injuries may require slight modifications to your containment strategy:

• Small songbirds (sparrows, finches, warblers): A paper bag folded over at the top or small box with air holes works well. Place a few tissues at the bottom for cushioning.
• Medium birds (robins, jays, woodpeckers): Use a shoebox or similar-sized cardboard box with a towel lining and secure lid.
• Large birds (crows, ducks, hawks): A larger box that allows the bird to stand if able but not flap extensively. For waterfowl, avoid fluffy towels that can damage waterproofing.
• Hummingbirds: Require special care due to their high metabolism. Use a small box with air holes and contact a bird rehabilitation center immediately, as they can decline rapidly.

Critical modifications for special cases:

• Birds entangled in fishing line/netting: Cut away visible entanglements carefully before moving, but don’t pull on embedded materials.
• Birds showing signs of heat stress: Provide a slightly cooler environment and contact help immediately.
• Visibly bleeding birds: Line the container with white paper towels to monitor bleeding amount.

Providing Emergency Care

While professionals should handle most treatments, these emergency measures can help stabilize an injured bird:

• Heat support: Many injured birds suffer from shock and benefit from gentle warmth. Place a heating pad on the lowest setting under half of the container (never inside with the bird).
• Hydration considerations: Do NOT attempt to give food or water by mouth—this can lead to aspiration and death. For dehydrated birds, you can mist the sides of the container lightly with room-temperature water, which may allow the bird to drink droplets if needed.
• Limiting stress factors: Keep the area quiet, minimize handling, and avoid checking on the bird frequently. Every disturbance increases stress hormone levels, which can impede recovery.
• Documentation for professionals: Note the exact location where you found the bird, the time, and any behaviors or circumstances you observed. This information can help rehabilitators determine appropriate treatment.

Where to Bring an Injured Bird

Getting professional help quickly improves an injured bird’s chances of survival and successful release back to the wild.

Local Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers

Wildlife rehabilitators are trained professionals specifically equipped to care for injured wild animals, including birds. Unlike veterinarians, they focus exclusively on wild species and work toward the goal of release back to natural habitats.

How to find a licensed bird rehabilitation center:

1. Search the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association directory: Visit nwra.org to find licensed rehabilitators near you.
2. Contact your state’s wildlife agency: They maintain lists of licensed wildlife rehabilitators.
3. Call local animal control: They often have updated contact information for wildlife resources.
4. Check with the Audubon Society: Local chapters maintain rehabilitation contacts.
5. Search for specialized groups: Organizations like the NYC Bird Alliance or Wild Bird Fund in urban areas often provide specialized avian care.

Information to provide when contacting a rehabilitation center:

• Bird species (or description if unknown)
• Nature of the injury or condition
• Exact location where the bird was found
• How long you’ve had the bird
• Any care you’ve provided thus far
• Your contact information

Avian Veterinarians vs. Wildlife Centers

Not all veterinarians are equipped to treat wild birds. Here’s how to navigate the options:

Facility Type	Best For	Potential Limitations	Cost Considerations
Wildlife Rehabilitation Center	All wild bird species, goal of release to wild	May have limited intake hours, might be volunteer-run	Usually free (donations appreciated)
Avian Veterinarian	Specialized bird medical care, diagnostic testing	May focus primarily on pet birds, might not be licensed for wildlife	Fee for service, can be expensive
General Veterinarian	Emergency stabilization only	Limited expertise with wild birds, may not accept wildlife	May charge examination fee
Animal Hospital for Birds	Specialized equipment for avian surgery, advanced diagnostics	May not be wildlife-oriented	Typically highest cost option

When to choose a veterinarian over a wildlife center:

• After-hours emergencies when rehabilitation centers are closed
• Cases requiring immediate surgical intervention
• When a wildlife center recommends veterinary care first
• If no wildlife rehabilitators are available in your area

“While all injured birds benefit from professional care, time is especially critical for certain species like hummingbirds, swifts, and nestlings, which have extremely high metabolic rates and can decline rapidly without specialized care.” — Bird rescue volunteer coordinator

State and Federal Regulations

Be aware that handling wildlife, even with good intentions, is subject to legal regulations:

• Migratory Bird Treaty Act: Protects nearly all native bird species in the United States. Technically, possessing these birds without permits is illegal, though brief temporary care while arranging transport to licensed facilities is generally understood as necessary.
• Endangered Species Act: Additional protections apply to threatened or endangered species, requiring immediate notification of proper authorities.
• State-specific laws: Many states have specific regulations about wildlife rehabilitation and transport. Check your state’s fish and wildlife department website for details.
• Reporting requirements: Some jurisdictions request reports of window collision victims to help track bird strikes in urban areas and inform building design guidelines.

Documentation for legal compliance:

Keep records of:

• When and where you found the bird
• Who you contacted for assistance
• When you transferred the bird to professional care

This information protects both you and the bird in case questions arise about the handling of protected wildlife.

What to Do If You Can’t Bring an Injured Bird to a Rehabber Yourself

Sometimes logistical challenges prevent immediate transport. Here’s how to manage that situation responsibly.

Temporary Care Guidelines

If you must provide temporary care while arranging transportation:

• Maintain minimal contact: Check on the bird visually only when necessary, ideally without opening the container.
• Environment management: Keep the container in a warm, quiet place away from children, pets, and household activity.
• Monitoring timeframe: Aim to get the bird to professional care within 24 hours maximum, as many injuries require prompt medical intervention.
• Observation notes: Track basic information like alertness changes, breathing rate, and any new symptoms to report to rehabilitators.

Critical don’ts during temporary care:

• DON’T attempt to feed the bird unless specifically instructed by a wildlife professional. Improper diet can cause more harm than good.
• DON’T provide water dishes that birds can fall into and become wet or chilled.
• DON’T attempt to treat visible injuries with household first aid products, which can be toxic to birds.
• DON’T handle the bird repeatedly to check on its condition.
• DON’T keep the bird as a pet, even temporarily beyond what’s needed for transfer to proper care. Wild birds require specialized diets and housing to survive.

Finding Transportation Help

If you’re unable to transport the bird yourself, consider these options:

1. Wildlife transport volunteers: Many rehabilitation centers maintain a network of trained transport volunteers who can retrieve injured wildlife.
2. Social media assistance: Local community groups, NextDoor, or Facebook neighborhood groups often have members willing to help with wildlife transport.
3. Animal control services: In some areas, animal control officers may provide transport for injured wildlife, especially for larger species or those in roadways.
4. Rideshare or delivery services: Some wildlife centers report success with arranging special transport via pet-friendly rideshare drivers or delivery services (call ahead to confirm this is possible).

How to prepare a bird for transport by someone else:

• Secure the container with the bird inside
• Provide written details about when and where the bird was found
• Include your contact information
• Minimize noise during the journey (suggest turning off radio)
• Maintain stable temperature (not too hot or cold)

When Professional Help Isn’t Immediately Available

In rural areas or during major wildlife emergencies (like after storms), immediate professional help might not be available. In these situations:

1. Extend your search radius: Look for rehabilitators in neighboring counties or even states for serious injuries.
2. Remote consultation: Some wildlife centers offer phone consultations for emergency situations when transport isn’t possible.
3. Documented care: If keeping the bird overnight is unavoidable, keep detailed records of the bird’s condition and your actions.
4. Conservation triage: Focus efforts on species that aren’t common if resources are limited. While all birds deserve care, rehabilitators sometimes need to prioritize threatened or endangered species.

Signs that indicate the situation requires urgent intervention:

• Labored breathing or gasping
• Major bleeding that doesn’t stop
• Extreme lethargy or unresponsiveness
• Signs of pain (trembling, fluffed feathers, closed eyes)
• Visible fractures or wounds

Conclusion

Finding an injured bird presents us with a unique opportunity to make a difference in our shared environment. By understanding when to help, how to safely contain an injured bird, and where to bring it for professional care, you become a crucial link in the wildlife rescue chain. Remember that your quick, informed action in those first critical moments can mean the difference between life and death for these remarkable creatures.

The most important steps to remember when you find an injured bird are:

1. Determine if intervention is truly needed
2. Contain the bird safely in a quiet, dark, ventilated box
3. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or bird rehabilitation center immediately
4. Transport the bird carefully or arrange transport with minimal stress
5. Document the circumstances and location where you found the bird

Consider saving wildlife rehabilitation contacts in your phone now, before you need them. Many of us don’t think about where to bring an injured bird until we’re faced with one, and those precious minutes of searching could impact the bird’s survival chances.

By helping injured birds, you’re not just saving individual lives—you’re contributing to conservation efforts and developing a deeper connection with the natural world around you. Each successful rehabilitation and release represents another chapter in our ongoing relationship with the wild creatures who share our communities.