Adult birds need help when they are dragging a wing or are
so ill or injured they will not fly away.
Baby birds fall into two categories, nestling and fledglings. Nestling are feather less and can't stand. They need help. The best way to help a nestling is to return them to their nest. If the nest is destroyed or inaccessible, transport the nestling to a local wildlife care center as soon as possible. Keep the baby in a warm, quiet, and dark cardboard box during transport.
Fledglings are well feathered and move around. They're being trained to hunt on the ground by their parents for a few days until they have mastered flight. Leave fledglings alone. Keep children and pets out of the area for a few days.
Raptors
are very dangerous to handle. They have incredibly powerful wings
but it is their beak and claws which can cause people serious injury if
they are not controlled properly. Heavy leather gloves covering the
arm to the elbow are advisable. A heavy towel covering the
wings will restrict the birds flight. Always be careful not to cause
additional injury to the wings.
After handling any wildlife, always wash up well.
Most local governments prohibit possession of wildlife,
usually, special zoning and permits are required. Check with the
local city or county clerk .
Many birds are protected by:
- Wild Bird Conservation
Act
- Migratory Bird Treaty
Act
- Eagle Protection Act
- Endangered Species Act
