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What should I do if I found a sick or injured wild bird at home?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Bird | Unknown - Bird | Male | unneutered

So i found a small dove who looked injured and brought her home but i dont know whats wrong with her she has no external injuries but she is breathing difficultly, laying upside-down,not moving around with her legs,pooping liquid and is scared of the tiniest noises,i then calm her down by slowly petting her head and giving her water and she seems to has gotten attached to me,i really wanna save her,what should i do,i know i should take her to the rehabilitation center but im only 15

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Jessica Keay, DVM

Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 9th, 2018

I am sorry to hear about your situation. It sounds like she defintely needs medical attention. I would see if your parents can drive her to a rehab center or some rehab volunteers will pick animals up so perhaps you can find someone to do this. You can look at https://www.nwrawildlife.org/page/Find_A_Rehabilitator and https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/how-find-wildlife-rehabilitator to try to find a rehabilitator near you. Until then I would keep the bird in a quiet dark place and handle it as little as possible.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on July 11th, 2018

    If you've found a wild or potentially sick parrot, it would be best to seek out a local wildlife refuge or vet that sees birds in your area ASAP. They can assess the bird for any signs of illness, rehabilitate it and release it back into the wild as needed.

    If you have any other pet birds, it is best to keep them completely separated in different cages, rooms, etc and clean any objects or wash your hands after handling the possibly ill bird to prevent the spread of illness to any others in your household. Keeping the bird calm, quiet, and eating and drinking may help some until you can find someone to take a look at her.

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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