What to do if you find a wildlife casualty, by the Winslade wildlife sanctuary
Always stop, look and listen, from a concealed position, before taking action. Unfortunately a lot of baby birds that arrive at the Winslade wildlife sanctuary should have been left alone, more often then not the mother is watching and waiting for you to leave. Wait at least 30 minutes, unless it is in immediate danger or obviously injured. All wildlife casualties, injured or not are always suffering from shock. Shock is the biggest killer. The first, most important thing is to put your casualty somewhere warm, dark and quiet. Please do not be tempted to cuddle or talk to them, this will only increase the shock to the already frightened creature. A cardboard box, with air-holes (dark), a hot water bottle wrapped in a jumper or small blanket (warm), is perfect. Gently place the casualty on top, close the box and put in a quiet place. Then phone the Sanctuary on 01237 451550 for advice. We will give you guidelines on how to care for the creature or directions to the sanctuary. Please don't be tempted to feed the casualty until you have received some advice. Food is not the most important thing at this stage, getting over the shock is.
If you would like to know more about your local wildlife sanctuary please feel free to contact us and we will send you a leaflet. Tel (01237) 451550