If you find an injured bird, it is important to house it away from other birds in a quiet area and minimize handling until a veterinarian can see it. Here are some steps to follow when feeding an injured bird:

• Hydration: Weak or injured birds usually need rehydrating. They can slowly be given sips of Gatorade or a sugar water mixture which can then be given by dipping your finger in the liquid and running your finger along its beak so the liquid can slowly seep inside.

• Provide fluids: Birds not eating or drinking need to be hydrated immediately after a period of warming. Use a spoon or small syringe to try to get the bird to drink on its own (Pedialyte or 100% fruit juice such as apple, pear, or grape). Placing the syringe near the bird’s beak, gently squeeze a few drops of fluid into their mouth at a time. Do not force-feed the fluids, as the stress of handling may worsen the situation.

• Adequate nutrition: Entice the bird to eat on its own; do not force-feed it. Offer a variety of foods, especially the bird’s favorite food and diet they’re accustomed to eating (now is not the time to introduce unfamiliar foods), and ensure that water and food bowls are easily accessible. Foods to offer include seed, millet, pellets, some fresh fruit, or easily digestible human foods such as mashed ripe bananas, applesauce, strained or soft vegetables such as peas or vegetables, infant rice cereal or baby food, oatmeal, or ground up pellets mixed with fruit juice.

It is important to note that different bird species have different diets, so its best to speak to a professional to get specific advice (and not to feed the bird unless youre directed to) . If you need to hold the bird for several hours, provide a shallow dish of water in the box. Remember to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible for further assistance with the injured bird.