Raptor

Any raptor that remains on the ground is obviously debilitated in some way but never forget that even a grounded raptor is a dangerous animal.

Rescue items needed:

• Gloves
• Box with air holes punched in it
• A towel or blanket

How to safely capture and contain the bird:

• Remember, safety is the first priority
• Have your cardboard box ready, lined with a towel or newspaper, and be sure the box has air holes in it
• Open the box
• Put on the thickest pair of gloves you have, even gardening gloves. Gloves will offer you some protection if a bird tries to bite or talon you.
• Holding the towel or blanket, approach the bird slowly
• If the bird is not standing, it is in very bad shape and should not pose much of a threat. If that is the case, try to prop the bird up in the box on a towel so that the bird is on its side, not on its back. A bird on its back will have increased difficulty breathing.
• If the bird is standing, approach slowly, and then quickly cover the bird with the towel or blanket. You will have a few seconds to pick up the bird while it cannot see to strike out or escape.  Most hawks and owls,when approached, may lay on their back with talons in the air. This is a real good opportunity to either grab the legs up high by the body or, let them grab a gloved hand (only do if your gloves are thick and you are comfortable with it.) Once they have a hold of you, you can take the other hand and grab it appropriately and get a towel over its head.
• Do not grab a bird by one leg, near the feet or by a wing. If you do, let go and try again. Grip the bird on both upper legs as close to the body as possible, with one hand, while tucking the wings in with the other hand. Be sure the taloned feet are facing away from your body and face. Immobilizing the legs and feet gives you control.
• Put the bird into the box and quickly close it. Give the bird a short time to get situated and stand upright in the box.
• If you fear the bird or are unsuccessful in your efforts to contain it, toss a laundry basket over the bird so that it cannot fly out of reach or run away. Then watch the bird and keep domestic pets away until volunteers arrive to pick it up.

Food & Water

• Do not offer any food or water to the bird. Raptors have a specialized diet that you cannot provide. Feeding the bird the wrong food would do more harm than good.

Call the Project Wildlife Hotline 619-225-9202 to get more information.

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