# What should you do if you find an injured bird?

> If you find an injured bird, keep it quiet, dark and warm in a ventilated box, avoid food or water unless advised and contact a wildlife rehabilitator, vet or local rescue. Handle as little as possible. Injured-bird searches need direct advice because well-meaning handling can increase stress or harm.

**Category:** Rescue & Welfare  ·  **Updated:** 2026-07-07

## Key takeaways
- Use a ventilated box, darkness and warmth.
- Do not force food or water.
- Contact a wildlife rehabilitator or vet.
- Minimise handling and noise.

## Answer
Birds can die from stress as well as injury. Quiet containment is safer than repeated checking or handling.

Do not try to splint wings, bathe wounds or force-feed. Incorrect help can make injuries worse.

If the bird is in immediate danger, move it only the shortest safe distance and call trained help.

## Why this question matters
Small wildlife often looks easy to help, but birds are fragile and stress-sensitive. Rapid, calm triage matters.

## The welfare-first answer
A secure ventilated box in a quiet room gives the bird the best chance while you contact professional help. Keep children and pets away.

## What to do next
Use gloves or a towel only if safe, place the bird in a box and call a wildlife rescue or vet for species-specific instructions.

## FAQ
### Should I give water?
Usually no unless a rehabilitator advises it. Birds can aspirate if water is given incorrectly.

### Can I keep the bird overnight?
Only while waiting for professional advice. Injured wildlife needs specialist care.

### What if it hit a window?
Even if it recovers briefly, concussion or internal injury is possible, so ask a wildlife professional.

## Sources
- [RSPCA - wildlife advice](https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/wildlife)

Human-readable page: https://worldanimalrescuenetwork.org/answers/what-to-do-if-you-find-an-injured-bird