rescued a pigeon...help!

kevs pigeon · #1 (**permalink**) 13-05-2009, 06:54 PM

hi we found a wood pigeon the other day by the window. we first thought it was dead but then it got up. it had loads of feathers missing and looks like its been attacked. we picked it up and put it in a large dog cage in the backgarden so it doesnt get attacked anymore and we bring it in at night. just after some help really on the best way to rehabilitate it. the pigeon is healthy and eating and drinking. the only problem we can see is that one of its wings may be broken as he opens his wings but doesnt flap. his wing doesnt sag tho so not sure. he has lost a lot of tail feathers so maybe thats why he cant fly? we kept him in the cage for a day to help him get over the shock and have tried to release him tonight but he seems happy where he is!! he waddled round the garden and opened his wings but didnt flap them. he was happy to be picked up and put back in is safehaven. we did think of taking him to a vet or sanctuary but we dont want him to be killed.
any tips?

wildliferescuer · #2 (**permalink**) 13-05-2009, 07:08 PM

The pigeon needs to be looked at by a wildlife hospital so that any injuries can be treated. It may need antibiotics as well so you must get it to one as soon as possible. A reputable wildlife hospital won't put it to sleep unless its injuries are so severe that it cannot be rehabilitated, in which case euthanasia is the best thing for the bird. If you don't know your nearest centre, let me know where you are & I will try to find a contact for you.

Pippa · #3 (**permalink**) 14-05-2009, 05:14 PM

I agree with W but you could take it to a local vet who should treat wild birds without charge.Tell them you want to release it in your area.If they mention putting it to sleep, take it back home until you can do what W suggests.It sounds as if he/she is in good spirits

Good luck.

kevs pigeon · #4 (**permalink**) 15-05-2009, 07:40 PM

hi

just to let you all know we took the pigeon to the local wildlife hospital. they were happy to take him on and im going to phone tommorrow to see how he is doing. thanks all for your help

kev and suzy