🦜 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

Wrap the bird gently in a towel or soft cloth
Place it in a well-ventilated container (like a shoebox with holes)
Keep the box in a quiet, warm, dark place
Minimise noise and contact—keep pets and children away
Do not feed or give water
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.