Injured & Orphaned Birds
Please note: Tenafly Nature Center is not licensed to accept injured or orphaned wildlife.
A young animal’s best chance of survival is in the care of its own mother.
If you must handle a bird for safety reasons, always wear protective gloves and gently place a towel over it to reduce stress. Use extreme caution, as wild animals may carry diseases or attempt to defend themselves when frightened. Keep yourself, your children, and pets at a safe distance, and contact your local animal control agency immediately if you suspect illness or injury.
Important: Many bird species are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which makes it illegal to disturb, possess, or relocate birds, their eggs, or nests without a federal permit. Because it can be difficult to identify which species are protected, it is safest to leave all nests undisturbed whenever possible.
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Determine the bird’s stage of development.
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Nestlings (featherless or with sparse down) should not be out of the nest and will not survive long on the ground.
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Fledglings (young birds with feathers who are learning to fly) usually do not need help. They may appear clumsy, but their parents are typically nearby providing food and protection.
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If the nest is visible and easily accessible, you can gently return a nestling or fledgling to it. Your scent will not cause the parents to abandon it.
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If a nest has fallen: Parents will often continue caring for their young if the nest is replaced in a nearby safe, elevated spot.
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If the original nest cannot be found or replaced: Create a substitute nest using a small basket, berry container, or margarine tub (with drainage holes), lined with dry grass or pine needles. Secure it in a nearby tree and observe from a distance. The mother will not return while people are present.
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If the mother does not return after several hours, or you know she has been killed, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
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Signs of injury include: inability to flutter wings, uneven or drooping wings, shivering, visible bleeding, weakness, or unresponsiveness.
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Protect fledglings by keeping cats and dogs indoors or under supervision. Domestic cats are the number-one predator of small birds.
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If a wildlife rehabilitator advises you to bring in the bird, follow these steps:
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Prepare a container: Line a small box or pet carrier with a soft towel. Ensure ventilation by making small air holes if necessary.
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Protect yourself: Wear gloves and gently cover the bird with a cloth before picking it up. Even small birds can bite or scratch when frightened. Wash your hands and forearms thoroughly after contact.
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Keep the bird calm and warm: Cover the container to keep it dark and quiet. Avoid unnecessary handling, and keep children and pets away.
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Do not feed or give water. Improper feeding can cause aspiration or other injuries.
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Record the exact location where the animal was found. This is critical information for its eventual release.
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Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator right away. Do not attempt to care for the animal yourself, it is illegal to keep injured or orphaned wildlife without the proper permits and training.
The information on this page is provided for educational purposes and should be used at your discretion. Wildlife laws and regulations differ between counties and states. Always confirm local requirements and consult with a licensed wildlife rehabilitator before taking action.
The Raptor Trust
908-647-2353
1390 White Bridge Rd. Millington
theraptortrust.org
Avian Wildlife Center
973-702-1957
146 Neilson Rd., Wantage
avianwildlifecenter.org
Complete list of Wildlife Rehabilitators