What To Do If You Find an Injured Hummingbird: A Guide to Helping These Tiny Treasures
If you find an injured hummingbird, your immediate response can significantly impact its chances of survival. What do I do if I find an injured hummingbird? Quickly and carefully contain the bird in a safe, dark space and immediately contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator specializing in hummingbird care.
Understanding Hummingbird Vulnerability
Hummingbirds, with their incredible metabolism and fragile bodies, are particularly susceptible to injury. These tiny creatures face a multitude of threats, from collisions with windows to attacks by predators. Understanding their vulnerability is the first step in knowing how to assist them effectively.
- Predators: Cats, hawks, and even larger insects can pose a threat.
- Habitat Loss: Reduced natural food sources (nectar-producing flowers) weakens them.
- Window Collisions: Clear or reflective glass is a major hazard.
- Pesticides: Insecticides can contaminate food sources and poison hummingbirds.
- Entanglement: They can become trapped in spiderwebs or other debris.
First Steps: Securing the Hummingbird
Your immediate action is crucial. Follow these steps carefully:
- Approach Calmly: Avoid sudden movements that could further stress the bird.
- Contain the Bird: Gently scoop the hummingbird up (if possible) or guide it into a small cardboard box or container lined with soft paper towels. A breathable cloth bag can also work.
- Dark and Quiet: Keep the container in a dark, quiet, and warm place. This reduces stress and allows the bird to conserve energy. Do not handle the bird excessively.
- Do Not Attempt to Feed: Unless specifically instructed by a rehabilitator, avoid offering food or water. Incorrect feeding can be detrimental.
- Immediate Contact: This is the most important step. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator specializing in hummingbird care immediately. Time is of the essence.
Locating a Qualified Wildlife Rehabilitator
Finding a qualified rehabilitator is paramount to the hummingbird’s survival.
- Local Wildlife Centers: Search online for wildlife rehabilitation centers in your area.
- Veterinarians: Call local veterinary clinics, as some may have connections to rehabilitators.
- Humane Societies: Contact your local humane society for referrals.
- State Wildlife Agencies: Your state’s wildlife agency can provide a list of licensed rehabilitators.
- Nationwide Directory: Websites like the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association (NWRA) offer directories of licensed professionals.
What Information to Provide to the Rehabilitator
When contacting a rehabilitator, be prepared to provide the following information:
- Location Found: Exact location where the hummingbird was found.
- Observed Injuries: Describe any visible injuries (broken wing, bleeding, etc.).
- Behavior: Note the hummingbird’s behavior (lethargic, unable to stand, etc.).
- Your Contact Information: Provide a phone number where you can be reached.
Understanding the Rehabilitation Process
Once the hummingbird is in the care of a qualified rehabilitator, they will assess its condition and provide appropriate treatment. This may include:
- Stabilization: Addressing immediate needs like dehydration or shock.
- Wound Care: Cleaning and treating any injuries.
- Feeding: Providing a specialized hummingbird diet.
- Flight Training: Helping the bird regain its flight skills.
- Release: Returning the hummingbird to its natural habitat when it is fully recovered.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Finding an Injured Hummingbird
Avoiding these common mistakes can drastically increase the chances of survival for an injured hummingbird:
- Delaying Action: The longer the delay, the lower the chance of survival.
- Attempting Home Care: Hummingbirds require specialized care that most individuals cannot provide.
- Providing Incorrect Food: Honey water is not a suitable long-term food source.
- Overhandling: Excessive handling stresses the bird.
- Assuming It’s Fine: Even if the injuries seem minor, seek professional help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What exactly constitutes an “injured” hummingbird?
An injured hummingbird isn’t always visibly bleeding. Signs can include difficulty flying, inability to perch, drooping wings, head trauma symptoms like disorientation or balance issues, or being found on the ground unable to fly upwards. Even apparent exhaustion can indicate underlying issues requiring assistance.
Is it legal to possess or care for a hummingbird without a license?
No, it is generally illegal in the United States and many other countries to possess or care for a wild hummingbird without the proper permits and licenses. These laws are in place to protect these vulnerable species and ensure they receive appropriate care. Always contact a licensed rehabilitator.
How do I transport the hummingbird to a rehabilitation center?
Keep the contained hummingbird in a dark, quiet, and climate-controlled environment during transport. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises. If the weather is cold, provide a gentle source of warmth (like a hand warmer wrapped in a towel, placed outside the container).
What if I can’t find a rehabilitator immediately?
Continue searching for a licensed rehabilitator. In the interim, keep the hummingbird in a dark, quiet, and warm place. A small, shallow dish of plain water (no sugar or honey) can be offered only if the bird is alert and stable, but avoid forcing it to drink. Continuously monitor the hummingbird and persevere in finding professional help.
Can I feed the hummingbird sugar water until I can get it to a rehabilitator?
While sugar water is better than nothing in an emergency, it’s crucial to use the correct ratio: 4 parts water to 1 part white granulated sugar. Never use honey, artificial sweeteners, or brown sugar, as these can be harmful. This is a temporary solution only.
How do I prevent window collisions?
Preventing future incidents is crucial. Apply window decals, streamers, or netting to break up the reflection. Moving feeders further from windows can also help. Consider installing window films that are visible to birds but transparent to humans.
What does a hummingbird rehabilitator do differently than I can?
Rehabilitators have specialized knowledge and equipment to diagnose and treat hummingbird injuries and illnesses. They understand their dietary needs, administer medications, perform wound care, and provide flight training – all crucial for a successful recovery and release.
How long does it take for a hummingbird to recover from an injury?
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the injury. Minor injuries may heal in a few days, while more serious injuries could take weeks or even months. Rehabilitators will monitor the bird’s progress and release it when it’s fully recovered and able to survive in the wild.
What kind of habitat is best for releasing a rehabilitated hummingbird?
Release the hummingbird in an area with abundant nectar-rich flowers, a source of fresh water, and some shelter from predators. Avoid releasing it in areas heavily treated with pesticides.
What are the ethical considerations of intervening with wildlife?
While it’s natural to want to help injured wildlife, it’s important to do so responsibly. Intervention should only occur when the animal is truly in need and not simply perceived to be. Inexperienced or ill-advised attempts to help can actually do more harm than good.
How can I contribute to hummingbird conservation in general?
Plant native nectar-producing flowers in your garden, avoid using pesticides, provide a fresh water source, and support organizations dedicated to hummingbird conservation. You can also educate others about the importance of protecting these amazing birds.
What do I do if I find an injured hummingbird nestling that has fallen out of its nest?
If the nest is accessible, gently place the nestling back inside. If the nest is destroyed or inaccessible, contact a wildlife rehabilitator immediately. Do not attempt to raise the nestling yourself, as they require specialized care and feeding schedules. The rehabilitator can assess the best course of action, which may involve creating an artificial nest or providing hand-feeding.