Found a Bird?
Ready to report a found bird? Reach us on Facebook or Instagram.
April through June is baby pigeon season, and the time of year that pigeons are at their most vulnerable. Fledglings are learning to fly, domestic birds are getting displaced, racing pigeons are getting lost or attacked by predators, and the chances of finding a bird in distress are at their highest. If you’re here, you’re already doing the right thing
If you find any injured pigeon, or a pigeon who is domestic (bands on legs, all white, unusual shape or colors), this bird cannot survive in the wild and is in great danger outdoors. You are this bird’s only chance for survival and you need to act quickly!
How to tell if a pigeon needs help:
Pigeons are fast and evasive. If you can get close to one or catch them, something is wrong. These are some signs to step in immediately:
Bands on legs
Racing or ceremony bands mean this is a domestic bird. They are lost, vulnerable, and unfamiliar with the outdoors.
All white or other unusual colors
These birds are bred for appearance and are not able to survive outdoors. They have no survival instincts to keep themselves fed and safe from predators.
Grounded and not flying, visible injury or illness
A bird that is sitting on the ground and letting you approach is not being friendly, it is most likely in some form of distress and needs help. Pigeons walking around with drooping wings, visible wounds, labored breathing, or discharge around the eyes or beak will not survive without intervention and also need immediate help.
Do not wait and see. These birds are not “resting” or “getting their bearings.” Every hour outdoors puts them at risk from predators, weather, and starvation.
What to do: 3 steps
Contain the bird safely
Drape an old t-shirt or towel gently over the bird to calm it. Scoop it up with both hands, wings held against the body. Place the bundled bird into a cardboard box or paper bag and close the top. You do not need gloves — a gentle, firm hold is fine.
Move it inside immediately
Bring the closed box into a quiet, enclosed space — a bathroom, closet, or garage works perfectly. Keep it away from other pets. Do not open the box, offer food or water, or handle the bird more than necessary. Quiet and dark is calming.
Get in touch
The fastest way to reach us is via social media. We monitor platforms daily. Please include: the bird’s location, a photo if possible, and your callback number. The more info you share, the faster we can help. You can contact us on Facebook, Instagram, and on our website.
What about racing bands?
If the bird has a racing band ( typically a smooth ring with numbers or letters) this bird has likely been lost from a pigeon racing operation or ceremonial dove release. Unfortunately, in most cases, the owner does not want the bird back. Birds who cannot find their way home are often considered a loss, and returning them can put them at risk. You can find more information about pigeon racing here, and about dove releases here.
These birds deserve care just as much as any other. Contact us and we’ll help you figure out the next step whether that’s identifying the band type, connecting with a rescue, or arranging intake.
Not sure if it’s a racing band or a pet ID band? Send us a photo. We can help identify it!