I saved a wounded sparrow, how do I care for it?

Question

My cat, as wonderful as he is, is a menace to small birds, bats, mice, etc. We have tried everything, to no avail. Today I caught him with what I believe is either an adolescent or adult White Throated Sparrow ( just closest match from looking online). It looks like my cat scratch his wing and may have punctured his side although it is no longer bleeding. He is safe and cannot be disturbed but I don't know how or if I even should care for it. I am clueless about birds. I know sparrows are common but would an aviary take it in?

Answer 1

First of all take it to the vet.

Answer 2

I would take it to animal control. It's illegal to touch wild birds even when hurt, as cruel as it sounds. Not only that, they know more about how to take care of it and have the recourse's to. In the mean time, keep it in a box (a shoe box will work) with the lid on and air holes punched in. Put a clean towel on the bottom and make sure not to touch anything hurt.

Best of luck!

By the way, if it's possible, try putting a bell on your cat's collar to  give any bird fair warning of what's coming.

Answer 3

The bird would need some immediate medical attention as soon as possible.  The lethality of a cat scratch or bite should never be underestimated in a bird, no matter how shallow it might seem.  It may also take several hours of even days to manifest.

The bird would need an Avian vet.  Typically they may advertise as an "exotic" vet but will usually state whether or not they specialize in avian care.

Ultimately the bird would need to be taken to a licensed wildlife rehabber since Black Throated Sparrows are a protected species (under the MBTA - Migratory Bird Treaty Act).  Either the vet would be able to direct you to one, or your local Fish & Game department will have the numbers for you.

Edit - There is a 24 hour grace period given when finding and handling a wild bird (although it's not strictly enforced).  This allows a non-licensed person to find an animal, rescue it and transport it to a proper facility.

Answer 4

Try finding a bird specialist and ask them. A regular vet might know what to do too.

Answer 5

take it to a bird rescue center.