How to Help Injured Wildlife

Encountering injured wildlife can be distressing, but knowing how to respond can make a difference:

  • Assess the Situation: Observe from a distance to determine if the animal is truly injured.
  • Prioritise Safety: Use gloves and minimise handling to protect yourself and the animal.
  • Contact Experts: Call a wildlife rescue centre or veterinary clinic for advice.
  • Provide Temporary Care: If advised, place the animal in a quiet, ventilated container.
  • Avoid Feeding or Watering: Offering the wrong food or water can harm the animal.

Acting promptly and seeking professional guidance ensures the best outcome. Find more information at the Wildlife Aid Foundation, RSPCA, Badger Trust, Your Local Badger Trust, and British Wildlife Rehabilitation Council for local wildlife Hospital

If in Doubt, Contact you local Veterinary Practice, or Wildlife Centre, on next steps.

****PLEASE NOTE MOST PLACES CANNOT ALLOW BIRDS INTO THEIR BUILDING WITHOUT CHECKING THE BIRD FOR AVIAN INFLUENZA** They may require you to wait outside, and ring a doorbell (if present) for someone to come to you. Do Not Walk directly into any Veterinary Practice, or Wildlife Centre's building with a bird. It is always best to take a Injured bird, to a Wildlife centre as they have more resources to look after, and release the bird, whereas veterinary practices do not have this facilities.

Reference list for this page is now live on: sykes.pet/animal-welfare/references