Helping injured wild birds
Observe before collecting
A bird on the ground is not always abandoned. Watch from a distance, keep pets away and assess immediate danger, injuries or difficult breathing. A feathered youngster that hops may still be fed by its parents despite poor flight. If healthy, keep your distance; if in danger, move it only to very nearby cover where the parents can find it. A sparsely feathered nestling needs a different assessment: if its nest is found, ask how to return it safely. This rule does not automatically apply to swifts.
Arrange help in Granada
For wildlife, check the current provincial CREA contact and call before travelling. Granada’s reference centre is El Blanqueo. Explain the location, appearance or species and problem; do not assume collection or automatic admission. Official directories may contain information being updated. For immediate danger to people, call 112 or Guardia Civil on 062 without putting yourself at risk. For pigeons, gulls or other urban birds, also ask the municipal service or local police about the appropriate resource. Orisylva sees patients by appointment at partner clinics; call to discuss availability or referral rather than assuming it is a wildlife rehabilitation centre.
Situations that cannot wait
Bleeding, inability to stand, a drooping wing, loss of balance, laboured breathing or contact with a dog or cat need prompt help. A cat attack warrants assessment even without visible wounds. If several birds are sick or dead, avoid touching them and inform the responsible services. Do not attempt to capture raptors or large birds that could injure you.
Swifts, swallows and other young birds
A grounded swift needs assessment: never throw it into the air or test flight from a window. Swifts, swallows and martins are aerial insectivores with specific diets; bread, milk and dog or cat food are not substitutes. Keep feathers clean and avoid bars and indoor flight tests. With young sparrows, blackbirds and starlings, check whether parents are attending before removal; do not relocate them for release. Diet, amounts, frequency and release require the rehabilitation team’s assessment: a fixed weight or more activity in a box does not prove readiness.
Temporary box and transport
Collect only when necessary and safe, with minimal handling and no chest compression. For a small bird, use a closed, ventilated cardboard box lined with absorbent paper. Keep it quiet, away from pets, direct sun and heat sources touching the body. Avoid repeated opening, cages and flight tests. Use protection and wash hands; keep the box and equipment separate from kitchen items and your pets. Record the precise finding location for rehabilitation and possible return to the wild.
Food, water and found companion birds
Do not force water or food by syringe, immerse the beak or give medicines or supplements. Unsuitable food or liquid entering the airway can worsen the situation. If transport is delayed, request specific instructions. A parrot, parakeet or ringed bird may need a different route: record the location, keep it apart from your birds and consult the municipality or a vet. Do not release a companion bird yourself. Rehabilitation and release need planning.