Build Your Dream Home: 0% Down Buys You a Certified Buildable Lot in Bent Tree: a 3,500-acre Gated Community in the North Georgia Mountains.

Longstreet Highroad Guide to the Florida Keys & Everglades

What To Do With an Injured Bird

Keep your safety in mind when approaching an injured bird. Lead it into a safe area, away from traffic or water, before attempting to catch it.
Eye protection is essential when approaching herons and egrets. These birds instinctively lunge at their prey, and when injured may lunge at you.
Cover the bird's head with a towel or T-shirt. This will often have a calming effect.
Don't tape or tie a bird's bill shut. Some birds do not have nostrils, some nostrils may be clogged with blood, some injured birds may regurgitate recently eaten food, and some cool themselves by panting.
Transport the injured or hooked bird to the nearest rehabilitation center, either the Wild Bird Center in Tavernier, or one of these other locations: Marathon Wild Bird Rescue, MM 47, Marathon. Phone (305) 743-8382. Wildlife Rescue of the Florida Keys, Key West. Phone (305) 294-1441. If you're not near a bird rescue center, contact a local veterinary clinic.