First aid

A Spotted Harrier (Circus assimilis) undergoing a full examination by Anita Turton VN

A Spotted Harrier (Circus assimilis) undergoing a full examination

What to do if you find an injured bird of prey

If you find a raptor that appears injured or sick follow these steps;

  1. Have a jacket, towel or sheet in hand (or wear riggers gloves)
  2. Approach it slowly and from behind
  3. Gently but firmly pick up the bird enclosing the wings to the body
    BEWARE OF THE TALONS (claws)
  4. Place the bird in a cardboard box
    Be mindful of damage to long tails when choosing a box.

    • If you don’t have a box you can wrap the bird in a towel or sheet as you would a baby.
    • Have someone hold the bird while you find a large box
  5. Contact our centre for assistance.
  6. Keep the bird in a dark, quiet, warm place free from kids and pets until help arrives.
  7. YOUR ASSISTANCE IN TRAVELLING THE BIRD IS MUCH APPRECIATED
    We receive over 100 birds annually, the single largest cost and physical drain on valuable volunteers is fuel and driving hours.