WHAT DO I DO IF I FIND A BABY BIRD?

BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING FACTS

• Under The Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and State law it is ILLEGAL for any person to injure or possess a indigenous bird. Introduced species such as English Sparrow. European Starlings, or the Common Rock Dove are excluded.
• The Raptor Education Group, Inc. and the facilities listed below are licensed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service and the State of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to rehabilitate injured birds.
• An injured bird requires IMMEDIATE specialized care. Any delay reduces the bird's chance for recovery.
• Most veterinarians do not have the time, special facilities, or the practical experience to handle injured birds.
• When birds leave the nest for the first time. They often do not have full flight capability, and spend two or three days on or near the ground.
• Be a responsible pet owner and consider keeping your pet indoors during the sensitive nesting and fledging time.

IF the bird is NOT injured:

1. Be certain the area is free of any animal that can cause harm. Especially keep cats and dogs away from the nest site.
2. If you find a bird on the ground, carefully return it to the nest. IT is a myth that the parents won't care for a baby once it is touched by humans.
3. If the original nest is unsafe or destroyed, place the bird in a small basket. Nail the basket to the tree near the nest site, out of the direct sunlight. If you cant find a basket, use a margrine dish, but be sure to punch drainage holes in the bottom to prevent drowning.
4. It is a good idea to keep an eye on the baby bird from a discreet distance. If the parents do not return in an hour, call your local DNR or wildlife rehabilitation center for help.

If the bird IS injured:

1. Prepare a small cardboard box by punching ventilation holes in the sides and the top.
2. Gently, place the bird on the towel and the box in a warm, dry, quiet area.
3. DO NOT GIVE THE BIRD ANY FOOD OR WATER!
4. Call your nearest DNR office or wildlife rehabilitation canter.

Wildlife Rehabilitation Centers Antigo, Raptor Education Group, Inc.: 715-623-4015
Arbor Vitae, Feathered Friends: 715-356-5490
Minocqua, Northwoods Wildlife Center: 715-356-7400
New London, Wind River Wildlife Rehab: 920-982-6825

DNR
Antigo: 715-627-4317
Eagle River: 715-478-3717
Pickerel: 715-478-3717
Rhinelander: 715-365-8900
Shawano: 715-526-4226
Stevens Point: 715-344-2752
Wausau: 715-359-4522
Wisconsin Rapids: 715-421-7800
Woodruff: 715-356-5211

Wildlife rehabilitation centers are volunteer based. We appreciate your help with the transportation of injured birds to our facilities. If you are unable to transport, we will make arrangements.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP!