CARE CENTRE

What to do...

Q1 "What do I do if I find a baby bird?"

Wild bird babies should be with their parents who do a better job of raising them than humans can. Sometimes, however, babies have been orphaned and need our help.

To answer this question, there are two stages of "babyhood" to know about - nestlings and fledglings.

Nestlings are:

• Naked or only partially feathered
• Helpless and unable to stand
• Belong in their nest

"Okay, so what do I do if I find a Nestling?"

1. Try to locate the nest and gently place the bird in it.
2. Watch for the parent. If the parent does not return within 2 hours, the baby may be orphaned.
3. Call WRA. 604.526.7275
4. If the nest has been destroyed, you can fashion a makeshift nest. Call WRA.
5. If you cannot locate the nest, call WRA. The baby cannot survive without the parent.

Fledglings are:

• Well-feathered, able to stand and hop, but may not be able to fly well
• Learning to fly and find food
• Out of the nest

"I've found a Fledgling. Now what?"

1. If you see the parent nearby, leave the baby alone.
2. Keep the area safe from cats.
3. If the parent is not nearby, gently put the baby on a low branch and watch from a distance for the parent to return. Keep cats away.
4. If the parent does not return within 2-3 hours, call WRA for advice. The baby may be orphaned and require help.

Q2 "I've found a baby bird and it seems to be hurt . Help!"

Signs of injury include blood, open wounds, limping, dragging a wing or unconsciousness. If a bird has any of these signs, it needs help. Lucky you found it.

1. Put the bird gently into a cardboard box with air holes. Keep the box covered, quiet and warm. Do not feed or attempt to treat the bird.
2. This bird needs medical attention as soon as possible. Call WRA’s Care Centre at 604.526.7275. We are open 7 days a week, every day of the year.

Q3 "What do I need to know, in general, if I find a sick or injured wild bird or animal?"

Great question! The chances of a sick or injured wild bird or mammal surviving can be increased greatly by the response and actions of the person who finds it. This is how you can make a difference if you find a wild creature in distress.

Fact #1 Stress Kills

Stress is the biggest danger to wildlife in captivity. Do not try to handle, talk to, or pet a wild animal because they view you as a predator and are afraid. Animals can even die from the stress of human handling. Put them in a covered cardboard box (or cage) and keep them dark, quiet and warm.

Fact #2 Time is Essential

The faster we receive the animal and begin care, the better its chance of survival. Infections spread rapidly, fractures can start to heal in the wrong position, and even a day without food may be too much for the small and weak. Help conserve their energy by keeping them warm. Get them to help as soon as possible.

Fact #3 Prevent Further Damage

Please do not try to treat the animals yourself. We know you mean well, but wouldn't you rather they be cared for by professional rehabilitators? We have access to appropriate diets, caging and medical care. Do not feed them until you have talked to us first.

Fact #4 Protect Yourself

Wild birds and mammals can be dangerous especially when cornered and injured. Please phone us to discuss the situation and find out how to proceed safely. In some cases, such as fledgling birds, your help may not be necessary. We may be able to help you resolve the problem over the phone. We can also instruct you on proper methods of capturing, transporting and emergency care when needed.

Wildlife FAQ's