Urgent Care

What if I find an injured bird?
It’s important that an ill or injured bird receives help as quickly as possible. We recommend placing the bird in a warm, quiet environment to transport it to Liberty Wildlife. The bird may be going into shock and it’s imperative that the animal receives expert attention quickly. Otherwise, the bird could die in a matter of hours.

I found a baby bird and will bring it to Liberty Wildlife but I can’t until after 5pm. What do I feed it until then?
If the bird is an insect-eater such as a mockingbird or cactus wren, you can soak dry dog or cat food in water, then offer very small pieces to the bird. You may also use small pieces of chopped apple or grape. This will provide the bird with sugar, which may help keep the bird from going into shock.

Can I give the bird bread and milk?
No! Birds cannot digest milk.

Can I give it water with an eye dropper?
No. This may result in aspiration, which can cause a bird to die. Birds get all the fluid they need from their food. Most birds do not carry water in their beaks.

What if I find an injured hummingbird?
Injured hummingbirds must be transported immediately. If the hummingbird can not be transported within the hour, keep it hydrated in the following manner: place your finger over the end of a drinking straw that has a few drops of water in it. The bird will take water from the lower end of the straw. Repeat this every fifteen minutes until the hummingbird is transported. Please remember this is only a temporary measure.

What if I find an injured or sick mammal?
It’s important that injured mammals receive help as quickly as possible. Keep the animal warm, in a quiet place, and away from people and pets.

If the baby does not yet have fur, place it immediately in a warm, dark, quiet, ventilated container until ready for transport. A heating pad on the low setting placed under the bottom of the container should provide enough warmth.

It is imperative to get the mammal to qualified individuals who can provide the correct food, hydration, environment, medical care, and contact with its own species that are essential to the creature’s survival. Without this expertise, the mammal could die in a matter of hours.

What if I find an injured reptile?
Snakes and lizards are treated at Liberty Wildlife. If you find one that is injured, call Liberty Wildlife immediately.

What if I find an injured amphibian like a frog or toad?
Frogs and toads are treated at Liberty Wildlife. If the frog or toad is injured, call Liberty Wildlife immediately.