Helping Wildlife

All of us at some point will come across a sick or injured animal or bird. It may be a case of a bird hitting your window or the result of a collision with a car, telephone or power line. People often feel helpless faced with an injured bird or animal, yet the means to help may be close to hand. Having a mobile phone means help is only a phone call away. Locally the Scottish SPCA is the number I call if I am unable to handle the animal or bird myself, the number is 01463 231191. The Local Vets Practice may also be helpful, the number is 01667 453161. In the case of a bird hitting your window and being stunned for a while, all that's required is the bird be left alone and given time to recover.Where there is no obvious broken bones or bleeding and you want to give the bird a chance, a day or two in a box with food and water can sometimes work wonders. In the case of a large injured bird like a seagull, always use gloves when handling them and keep them away from your face, they can easily give you a peck. It's rewarding when you see a successful outcome, such as the pigeons I kept for a couple of days, and now see healthy and thriving !