🦜 Rescue & Care Advice

If you find an injured or sick bird, knowing what to do can help save its life.

Being handled is extremely stressful for birds. If already injured or in shock, this stress can be fatal without the right care. We understand that finding a distressed bird can also be overwhelming—but staying calm and acting gently can make all the difference.

📞 If you need urgent help, call Wildlife Rescue Australia: 1300 596 457


🩺 What to Do if You Find a Sick or Injured Bird

  1. Wrap the bird gently in a towel or soft cloth
  2. Place it in a well-ventilated container (like a shoebox with holes)
  3. Keep the box in a quiet, warm, dark place
  4. Minimise noise and contact—keep pets and children away
  5. Do not feed or give water
  6. Call us for advice or coordination of rescue

🚫 Do NOT Feed or Give Water

  • Injured or shocked birds often won’t eat or drink
  • Trying to feed them may cause choking or aspiration
  • Unless advised by a wildlife professional, it’s best to avoid food and water

Most birds can safely go without food or water for several hours while awaiting rescue.


🩹 First Aid – Bleeding & Shock

Bleeding

  • Gently place a clean cloth over the wound
  • Apply firm pressure without restricting breathing
  • Do not remove any blood clots

Shock

  • Signs include weak movement, slow blinking, fast breathing
  • Place in a warm, dark, quiet space with minimal light
  • Let the bird rest undisturbed for 4–6 hours
  • If there’s no improvement, call WRA for support

🦴 Broken Wing or Leg

  • Gently wrap the bird in a towel
  • Place it in a box lined with newspaper or soft cloth
  • Keep warm and undisturbed
  • Contact a vet or WRA as soon as possible

🐣 Found a Baby Bird?

Not all baby birds need rescuing! Many birds leave the nest before they can fly.

Fledglings

  • Are partly feathered and may hop or flap on the ground
  • Their parents are usually nearby and still feeding them
  • Observe quietly from a distance before intervening

Nestlings

  • Have no or very few feathers
  • May have fallen or been displaced
  • If you can safely return the bird to a nearby nest, do so
  • Parents will usually accept it back if it’s within 24 hours

If the nest can’t be found or it’s unsafe to leave the bird:

  • Keep it warm, quiet, and secure
  • Call WRA for advice and next steps

🧤 Handling Birds Safely

  • Wear protective gloves (gardening gloves work well)
  • If no gloves are available, use a towel to scoop up the bird
  • Cover the head and wings gently to reduce stress
  • Keep the bird away from your face
  • Wash your hands immediately after handling
  • Avoid hay or straw inside boxes—use newspaper or cloth

🧭 Need Help Right Now?

Call our 24/7 Wildlife Rescue Hotline on 1300 596 457

We can guide you on what to do, help assess the situation, or connect you with local rescuers. Our phone coordinators are trained to help in all aspects of wildlife care.


💚 Want to Help?

You can join our volunteer network to support injured, sick, or orphaned birds and other native animals. [Apply here] to get involved.

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