Dealing with Wild Animals

If you spot an apparently abandoned bird or mammal, you should observe rather than immediately attempt to pick it up. In many instances, young animals may be exploring rather than lost, as an adult is likely to be nearby.

Birds

If you find a small, as yet not fully feathered, bird on the ground, you should pick the bird up and call for advice. A bird on the ground in this condition is open to predators, like cats and foxes, and the parent is unlikely to be able to help the young bird. A feathered bird should only be picked up if injured - otherwise, if it can hop or fly up into bushes, leave it alone.

Many birds fly into windows and become stunned. You should keep an eye on the bird without disturbing it immediately, as most will recover of their own accord in a few minutes. If it doesn't recover or you see the bird in obvious distress, you should call for advice, as the impact may have caused an injury.

Pigeons

Injured birds should be picked up with care, using gloves or a towel. While South Manchester Wildlife Rescue can take on pigeons and other birds, it may be more appropriate to contact a rescue that specialises in birds. If you call, we can determine the best way to handle collection of the bird.

Hedgehogs

If you spot a hedgehog in the daytime, as a nocturnal creature it is more than likely in trouble. Pick the hedgehog carefully with gloved hands or a towel, and get in touch. Handled with care, the spines will be nothing more than prickly and a hedgehog generally does little more than nip.

Injured Animals

You should always take care when approaching wounded animals, as the first response will likely be defensive and can inflict serious injuries. You should phone 07950 867353 for advice, rather than expose yourself to unnecessary harm.