Hawks Aloft, Inc.
Conservation, Avian Research, and Education
PO Box 10028 - Albuquerque, NM 87184 - (505) 828-9455

 

How to Help an Injured Raptor:

If you find an injured bird, it is important to know what steps need to be taken in order to provide it with the proper care.  During the spring and early summer, many young birds can be found on the ground because they are just learning how to fly.  If you are concerned about a young bird, it is usually best to keep an eye on it from a distance.  You will probably find the parent bird nearby looking after it.  If you find an injured bird, or a young bird that is not being cared for, DO NOT attempt to keep the bird and care for it on your own.  These birds need very specialized care which must be provided by a licensed rehabilitator.  Hawks Aloft works with rehabilitators throughout New Mexico.  If you bring an injured raptor to us, we will transfer it to the most appropriate rehabilitator and will notify you about its progress.  If releasable, you may be able to accompany the release team. 

	All raptors, and most other birds, are protected by federal laws. It is illegal to possess any part or whole bird protected by these laws. Injured birds urgently require special care. Delays reduce the chances of recovery.
Injured Prairie Falcon receiving medical attention

Capturing Procedure:  Injured raptors may be dangerous; however, if you follow these instructions, capturing the bird is usually not difficult.  If you do not feel comfortable attempting to catch the bird yourself, contact any of the organizations at the bottom of this list.   

1. Find something with which to cover the bird.  A blanket, towel, jacket, or shirt works well.
2. Approach slowly, from behind if possible.  
3. When close enough, carefully place the towel over the bird.  Be sure to cover it completely. 

   Injured Prairie Falcon receiving medical attention

4. Remember where the feet are to avoid being grabbed.  Carefully gather the cover together.  The best approach is to slide your hands down from the back, pinning the wings to the body as you grasp a leg in each hand, just above the ankle.  Lift the bird up against your chest, with the feet pointing away.  Make sure the birds eyes are covered.  This helps to keep them calm.
5. Find a cardboard box that will comfortably hold the bird.  Half fill the box with torn strips of newspaper, another towel, or an old sheet.  This will act as insulation and padding.  It will also help support damaged legs or wings.  
6. Place the bird in the box, and close it securely.  Place the box in a warm, dark, and quiet area.  The bird should be kept at room temperature, but be careful to avoid overheating.  
7. DO NOT FEED THE BIRD!  Even if the bird looks hungry, it is very important that you do not feed the bird anything.  Injured birds are very stressed and do not have enough energy to digest food.  Feeding the bird may add to this stress and possibly kill it. 
8. Contact a Wildlife Rehabilitator:  In New Mexico, contact Hawks Aloft at (505) 828-9455.  If you are in another state, contact your state wildlife office for the name of a nearby rehabilitation organization.