Philadelphia Metro Wildlife Center treats all bird species, including endangered animals.
Any animal caught by a cat requires emergency care. Gently place the bird in the towel-lined box, close the lid, and bring him in ASAP.
Even if the bird is gravely injured, bring him in so we can administer palliative care.
If the cat is yours, please consider keeping him indoors, building a “catio" or letting him outside only under close supervision.
Decide whether the bird needs emergency care or can recover independently:
1) EMERGENCY - If a bird hits a window, examine it for blood or obvious broken bones (wing/leg bone protrusion or bent incorrectly). If injured, the bird needs help; please bring it to us. If the bird is a raptor (hawk, owl, etc) please call us or consult our "box over" method instructions (https://www.phillywildlife.org/whats-new/2019/1/8/how-to-bring-an-animal).
2) HOME CARE and OBSERVATION - If, however, the bird is lying or standing still without obvious trauma, he may be stunned and recover independently. Insert the bird into a cardboard box with a towel at the bottom and close the lid. Leave the box in a quiet place for one hour, then bring it outside and open it. If the bird flies away, great! If not, he needs further help and can be brought to us.
If birds frequently hit your windows, there are effective, affordable, attractive preventions. Search for “bird strike window stickers” or call us for advice (267)-416-9453.
ANY ANIMAL STUCK ON A STICKY TRAP IS AN EMERGENCY.
Preparation for transfer:
1) Do NOT try to remove the animal.
2) DO minimize further injury by “disabling” the rest of the trap. Use paper towel or similar to cover the remaining exposed sticky parts.
Do NOT use oil on the animal or trap. It can destroy feathers or fur rendering the animal hypothermic.
3) DO put the animal and trap into a cardboard box and close the lid.
4) Bring the bird ASAP.
If it is a bat, use leather gloves.
If a bird consistently attacks your window, it’s almost certain he mistakes his reflection and an "intruder".
Cover the part of the window being attacked. Cover the OUTSIDE of the window. If you put the paper on the inside, the reflection will remain.
Call us for more permanent solutions (267) 416-9453.
