Found an Injured Wild Bird?

Here’s What To Do

Wild birds are delicate and easily stressed. Your actions in the first few minutes can make a critical difference—but only if done correctly. Well-meaning rescues can sometimes do more harm than good as birds can die from stress alone

Stop & Observe First (Do Not Rush In)

Not all birds on the ground are injured.

  • Fledglings (young birds learning to fly) often leave the nest and are cared for by parents nearby.

  • If the bird is alert, hopping, or calling, watch from a distance for 15–30 minutes.

👉 Intervene only if:

  • The bird is bleeding, unconscious, or unable to stand

  • There is a visible injury (e.g. broken wing)

  • It has been attacked by a cat or dog

  • It is in immediate danger (road, predators, etc.)

Ensure Your Safety

  • Avoid direct handling if possible. Birds can carry patogens that can

  • Use a towel, cloth, or gloves

  • Be cautious of sharp beaks and talons

Safely Contain the Bird

If intervention is necessary:

  • Gently place the bird in a well-ventilated box (with air holes)

  • Line the box with a soft cloth, towel or tissue

  • Keep the bird in a quiet, dark, and warm place

🚫 Do NOT:

  • Give food or water

  • Handle excessively

  • Try to treat injuries yourself

Get Help

Prof Dr Jalila Abu is at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)

Avian Vet Unit of UPM is located at University Veterinary Teaching Hospital (UVH), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, UPM, 43400 Serdang, Selangor. Tel: 03-97693889 (AVEX Counter) or WhatsApp: 013-8067724 (UVH). Email: jalila@upm.edu.my

References

The Center for Wildlife. (n.d.). Tips for wildlife rescue. Retrieved April 16, 2026, from https://www.thecenterforwildlife.org/tips-for-wildlife-rescue

Tufts Wildlife Clinic. (n.d.). What to do if you find a sick or injured bird. Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University. Retrieved April 16, 2026, from https://vet.tufts.edu/tufts-wildlife-clinic/found-wildlife/what-do-if-you-found-sick-or-injured-other-birds

The Environmental Literacy Council. (n.d.). How can I help a wounded bird? Retrieved April 16, 2026, from https://enviroliteracy.org/how-can-i-help-a-wounded-bird/

The Wildlife Trusts. (n.d.). Injured bird advice. Retrieved April 16, 2026, from https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/wildlife-advice/injured-bird-advice

Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. (n.d.). How to make a rescue box for wildlife. Retrieved April 16, 2026, from https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/garden/activities/rescue-box