If you happen to dislodge a nest during tree felling then consider how you can rescue any fledglings or injured birds.

1.Prepare a container. Place a clean, soft cloth with no strings or loops on the bottom of a cardboard box. Make sure it has air holes.
2. Protect yourself. Wear gloves if possible because bird beaks and claws can be quite effective weapons even if the bird is young or sick.
3. Cover bird with a light sheet or towel.
4. Gently pick up the bird and put it into the prepared container.
5. Warm the bird if the weather is cold. Put one end of the container on a heating pad set on low or fill an empty bottle with hot water, seal it tightly and wrap it in a cloth next to the bird.
6. Tape the box shut.
7. Note exactly where you found the bird. This will be very important for release.
8. Keep the bird in a warm, dark, quiet place. Don’t give it food or water, don’t bother or handle it and keep young children and pets away.
9. Wash your hands and anything that was in contact with the bird.
10. Get the bird to a wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible. If you are unable to get it help after a few hours, offer water in a small container.

Information supplied by Margi Brocklehurst from FreeMe Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. Open 7 days a week 8am – 5pm.
Tel: 011 807 6993. Cell: 083 558 5658 Web: www.freemewildlife.org.za