Who to Call for an Injured Bird: Wildlife Rehabilitators

If you've found an injured bird and are wondering who to call for an injured bird, the most appropriate and effective step is to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. These trained professionals specialize in caring for sick, injured, or orphaned wild birds and can provide the medical treatment, nutrition, and rehabilitation necessary for recovery and eventual release back into the wild. In many cases, local animal control agencies, humane societies, or nature centers can also assist by directing you to the nearest qualified rehabilitator. Never attempt to treat or keep a wild bird without proper authorization, as this can be harmful to both the bird and yourself under state and federal laws.

Understanding the Role of Wildlife Rehabilitators

Wildlife rehabilitators are individuals or organizations certified by state departments of natural resources or fish and wildlife agencies to care for native animals. When it comes to birds, they handle everything from songbirds with broken wings to raptors suffering from poisoning or collisions with windows. These professionals undergo rigorous training and must follow strict protocols set by regulatory bodies such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), especially when dealing with migratory birds protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Rehabilitators work closely with veterinarians who have experience in avian medicine. Their facilities are equipped with specialized enclosures that minimize stress and promote healing—something impossible to replicate at home. They also understand species-specific dietary needs; for example, a baby robin requires different feeding schedules and food types than a fledgling hawk.

Steps to Take When You Find an Injured Bird

Finding an injured bird can be distressing, but taking calm, informed action increases the bird’s chance of survival. Here’s what to do:

1. Assess the Situation Safely: Approach slowly and observe from a distance. Signs of injury include inability to fly, drooping wings, labored breathing, visible wounds, or staying still when approached.
2. Avoid Immediate Handling: Unless the bird is in immediate danger (e.g., on a busy road), do not pick it up right away. Sudden handling can cause shock.
3. Contain if Necessary: If you need to move the bird, use gloves and a towel. Place it in a ventilated box or carrier lined with a soft cloth. Keep it warm, dark, and quiet.
4. Do Not Feed or Give Water: Improper feeding can cause aspiration or digestive issues. Leave nourishment to professionals.
5. Contact a Licensed Rehabilitator: This is where knowing who to call for an injured bird becomes critical. Use online directories or call your local wildlife agency.

How to Locate a Nearby Wildlife Rehabilitator

Time is crucial when caring for an injured bird. The sooner it receives professional attention, the better its chances. To quickly identify who to call for an injured bird near you:

• Search the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association (NWRA) directory.
• Use the Animal Help Now (AHN) app or website, which provides real-time maps of nearby wildlife care providers.
• Contact your state’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or Fish and Game office—they maintain lists of permitted rehabilitators.
• Call local animal shelters, veterinary clinics, or nature centers—they often have referral networks.

In rural areas, response times may vary, so prompt outreach is essential. Some states allow transport across county lines if no local rehabilitator is available.

Common Misconceptions About Injured Birds

Well-meaning people often make mistakes based on myths about bird care. Understanding these misconceptions helps ensure proper action:

Misconception	Reality
'If I touch a baby bird, the parents will reject it.'	Birds have a poor sense of smell; they won’t abandon chicks due to human scent. However, unnecessary handling should still be avoided.
'All grounded birds are injured.'	Fledglings often leave the nest before they can fly well. Observe for parental care before intervening.
'I can raise a wild bird myself.'	It's illegal without permits and nearly impossible to meet nutritional and behavioral needs. Improper care leads to death or imprinting.
'Veterinarians treat all wild birds.'	Most vets only treat pets. Only those with avian specialization or agreements with rehab centers handle wild birds.

Legal Protections for Wild Birds

In the United States, most native birds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. This law makes it illegal to possess, harm, or kill migratory birds—or even keep their feathers or nests—without a federal permit. Violations can result in fines up to $15,000 and six months in prison.

This legal framework reinforces why knowing who to call for an injured bird isn't just about health—it's about compliance. Only licensed rehabilitators have the necessary permits to legally house and treat native species. Even keeping a seemingly 'orphaned' chick overnight could constitute a violation unless authorized.

Regional Differences in Wildlife Care Access

Access to wildlife rehabilitators varies significantly by region. Urban areas like Los Angeles, Chicago, or Boston typically have multiple centers and faster response options. Rural communities, particularly in states like Montana, Wyoming, or Alaska, may have limited or no local services.

In such regions, transportation may fall to the finder. Always call ahead to confirm availability—some facilities operate seasonally due to funding or staffing constraints. During spring and summer (nesting seasons), demand peaks, leading to full capacity at many centers.

Some states, like California and Florida, have centralized hotlines managed by wildlife agencies. Others rely on decentralized networks. Check your state’s official DNR website for guidance tailored to your location.

The Importance of Timing and Seasonality

Bird injuries occur year-round, but certain seasons see spikes. Spring and early summer bring increased incidents involving fledglings, window strikes during migration, and cat attacks. Winter brings hypothermia cases and starvation among non-migratory species.

When determining who to call for an injured bird, consider timing. Many rehabilitators prioritize urgent cases during peak hours (dawn and dusk). If you find a bird late at night, place it in a safe, quiet container and contact help first thing in the morning—unless it’s actively bleeding or in danger.

What Happens After You Deliver the Bird?

Once a rehabilitator takes custody, they perform an initial assessment: checking for fractures, dehydration, parasites, and signs of disease. Depending on severity, treatments may include fluid therapy, antibiotics, splinting, or surgery.

After stabilization, birds enter recovery phases involving flight conditioning, foraging practice, and predator avoidance training. Before release, they must demonstrate full mobility, proper weight, and species-typical behaviors. Releases are timed to coincide with favorable weather and food availability.

Rehabilitators track outcomes when possible and report data to state agencies to monitor population health and common threats like rodenticide poisoning or avian flu outbreaks.

Preventing Bird Injuries: Tips for the Public

While knowing who to call for an injured bird is vital, prevention reduces the need for intervention. Simple actions can protect local bird populations:

• Make Windows Visible: Apply decals, UV films, or external netting to prevent collisions—one of the top causes of bird injury.
• Keep Cats Indoors: Outdoor cats kill billions of birds annually in the U.S. alone.
• Avoid Pesticides: Chemicals poison birds directly or reduce insect prey needed for chicks.
• Provide Safe Nesting Sites: Install properly designed birdhouses and avoid pruning trees during nesting season.
• Report Abnormal Behavior: If multiple birds appear disoriented or sick, notify authorities—it could signal disease outbreaks.

Supporting Local Wildlife Rehabilitation Efforts

Wildlife rehab centers operate mostly on donations and volunteer labor. Supporting them ensures continued access to expert care. Ways to help include:

• Donating funds or supplies (towels, syringes, formula).
• Volunteering for transport or caregiving (with training).
• Spreading awareness through social media or community events.
• Advocating for stronger wildlife protection policies.

Your role doesn’t end after calling someone for an injured bird—you can contribute to long-term solutions.

Conclusion: Be Prepared Before an Emergency

Knowing who to call for an injured bird ahead of time can save valuable minutes in an emergency. Save the contact information of your nearest licensed wildlife rehabilitator in your phone. Bookmark resources like Animal Help Now or your state’s wildlife agency page. Educate family members, especially children, about not touching wild animals and reporting findings immediately.

By combining biological understanding, legal awareness, and practical preparedness, you become part of a broader network dedicated to protecting avian life. Whether motivated by ecological responsibility, compassion, or cultural reverence for birds as symbols of freedom and spirit, your actions matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take an injured bird to any veterinarian?

No, most veterinarians treat only domestic pets. Only avian vets or those affiliated with wildlife centers can legally accept wild birds. Always call a licensed wildlife rehabilitator first.

Is it ever okay to keep an injured bird at home temporarily?

Only in rare cases of immediate danger and short duration (e.g., overnight during a storm), and only if you plan to deliver it the next day. Do not feed or give water, and minimize handling.

What should I say when I call a wildlife rehabilitator?

Provide the species (if known), location, condition (e.g., bleeding, unable to stand), and how long it’s been observed. Follow their instructions precisely.

Are there fees for treating injured birds?

Most wildlife rehabilitators do not charge the public, though donations are appreciated. Treatment is funded through grants and community support.

What happens if the bird cannot be released?

If permanently disabled, some birds become educational ambassadors at nature centers. Euthanasia is considered only if suffering cannot be alleviated.