Hawks, Owls, Birds of Prey

The term “birds of prey” refers to several related bird groups including hawks, eagles, falcons, kites and ospreys. You may also hear the term “Raptor” when speaking of this hunting group. All birds in this group hunt for their food. Vultures, though not closely related, are often included because they look similar to and soar with raptors. However, vultures are efficient scavengers and feed on carrion.

Birds of prey use their talons (long nails on their feet) as a defense. Large birds of prey can inflict a substantial laceration so use care if rescuing! These birds often lay on their backs and wave their talons in defense. If you are not comfortable capturing the bird, please contact us at 831-462-0726.

What to do if you find…

Baby Birds of Prey

If the baby is on the ground, uninjured, has feathers, and is able to stand on its own, the bird is probably capable of hopping from branch to branch. Attempt to “re-nest” the baby as follows:

  1. Using gloves and a light towel, gently cover the bird and place it in a branch of the nearest tree.
  2. If there are no predators around, leave the area, but check again in a few hours.
  3. If you believe predators pose a significant risk and you’re unable to re-nest the bird, bring the bird to Native Animal Rescue.

If the bird has down feathers or is naked,

  1. Place the bird in a ventilated box with a hot water bottle or heating pad set on low.
  2. Transport the bird to NAR following the directions below.

If you are uncomfortable handling the young bird, call Native Animal Rescue at 831-462-0726.

 

Injured Mature Birds of Prey

Make sure that the bird is injured without touching it by checking for:

  • Blood
  • A drooping wing
  • Wing held out from body
  • Obvious leg injury (limping)
  • Hit a window over 45 minutes ago
  • Captured by cat or dog

If you feel able to capture the bird, use one of the following two methods while wearing heavy gloves to protect yourself from the talons:

Method 1:

  1. Put a box over the bird, and slip something underneath it (a strong piece of cardboard, a sheet, a tarp).
  2. Transport the box to Native Animal Rescue following the directions below.

Method 2:

  1. Use gloves and two large towels.
  2. Prepare a large cardboard box with a towel on the bottom and adequate ventilation.
  3. Try to maneuver the bird into a corner. The bird may lay on its back and hold its talons up in the air.
  4. Cover the bird with the towel, lift the bird and place into the box.

If you do not feel up to handling the adult bird of prey, call Native Animal Rescue at 831-462-0726.
Native Animal Rescue       1855 17th Ave., Santa Cruz, CA 95062