Safe Capture

Birds of prey often literally collide with our modern world when they are struck by vehicles, collide with power lines, shot, or fly into glass windows. And starvation can be a problem when inexperienced juveniles are unable to successfully catch prey. Human intervention is often required to get grounded birds the needed medical attention.

What should I do if I find an injured raptor?

1. Place a shirt or a jacket over the bird’s head. This calms it.
2. Be careful to avoid the powerful feet of the raptor. Use of leather gloves is advised, when possible.
3. Gather the raptor up, controlling the legs at all times.
4. Place the bird into a cardboard box, preferably with a piece of carpet on the floor. This gives the bird a non-slippery surface to stand on.
5. Never feed a raptor-especially young that are prematurely grounded. Feeding can lead to an irreversible condition of human imprinting.
6. Call a Fish and Game Officer, a local veterinarian, or preferably a wildlife rehabilitator who has expertise and housing for these specialized avian patients. Special federal permits are required of those who care for and medically manage these aerial predators.

*We are available at 208-245-1367 at Birds of Prey Northwest or through the Idaho Department of Fish and Game office at 208-769-1414.