Most of the injured birds of prey that we rehabilitate come to us when members of the public find an injured bird and take the time to call us. We appreciate having those caring eyes out there! Since we are community supported, we rely on a network of volunteers to assist callers in getting birds to our facility if the finder is unable to catch or transport the bird. Keeping visual contact with the bird until our volunteer can get there is critical.
Capturing and transporting birds of prey is not to be taken lightly because of potential safety issues for both the bird AND the finder. Volunteers who belong to our team are trained in how to handle birds in unusual circumstances, keeping the safety of both in mind. Many keep a car kit, (contents suggested here soon) to assist them in capture.
Don’t attempt to capture or pick up an injured bird of prey (or a heron or other long, sharp-beaked birds) without talking with a wildlife rehabilitator first. It can mean the difference between YOUR injury and safety.