I found a Mourning Dove today that seems to be injured what should I do?

Question

I found a Mourning Dove today that seems to be injured in some way as it can not fly. It might have been even just hit by a car, it was found close to road, as it let me pick it up. After admiring its bueaty i put it into a cage that we have in the back yard.

I would love to keep it because i love animals and it i beautiful... but i am not an idiot.. the only reason i even put it in a cage is because there was a cat sneaking around lately...

anyways...

what should i do with it?

should i take it too a vet?

is there someone locally that would take care of it?

Please guide me in this..

here are some pics...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/edputt/tags/mourning/show/

thanks for ur help

Answer 1

Nurse it back to health, if you can't care for the animal you should contact your local humane society.

Answer 2

I have had a bird that I found that needed help. I made it a nest out of pine straw, and fed it milk mixed with dog food. It really worked!

Answer 3

I know how you feel man, I never know what to do either, I saw one in a creek and told myself "He will eventually die, and even if I take him to the vet there is a good chance too"(He had a broken wing)"So unfortunately I put him out of his misery, I knew that would be the best thing for him, but if you wont do that, which i understand, take him to the vet and see what they can do, if you attempt to take care of him, he WILL die.

Answer 4

Call your local Humane Society and they will either be able to help the bird, or direct you to someone who can! Good on ya for showing compassion on a weak wounded animal. :)

Answer 5

The bird was probably stunned as they fly into windows and are sometimes hit lightly by cars. After they recover they are ok to go. If seems still not right can call local vet who can refer you to a wildlife rehabber in your area to take it to. They will evaluate it and get med attention from vet if needed then raise it and release it when ready. Looks young. Keep warm feed it seed and water in a deep cup as they suck their water up. Can see how he acts in couple hours and if ok try to release and see what does. may even had a cat chase him as this often makes them shocky. You can buy doves that make wonderful pets. he or she is a beauty. Great that you helped this wonderful critter. :)

Answer 6

perhaps it was just stunned.  take it back outside and see if it will fly away.  if not, please find a wildlife rehabilitator in your area to care for the bird and be returned to the wild.

Answer 7

Put it out of it's misery. Then Soup can be made.

Answer 8

SEND ME THE BIRD ILL TAKE GOOD CARE OF HIM IHAVE ALOT OF BIRDS..... OR JUST  TAKE HIM TO THE VET..