Southeastern Raptor Center

What to Do – Injured Raptors

The rehabilitation unit admits all native, wild raptors that are injured, orphaned, or ill. Since the Southeastern Raptor Center is designed specifically to care for birds of prey, it is not able to accept any other type of bird. A current list of non-raptor bird rehabilitators can be found here.

Please do not remove a young raptor from its habitat unless it is obviously ill or injured. Baby birds will spend time on the ground, with their parents watching over them.

Watch this video to learn about what to do if you find an injured raptor.

If you find an injured raptor, the best thing to do is throw a blanket or towel over it and carefully secure the feet. If possible, wear welding gloves or some other kind of thick gloves to protect your hands. Raptors will use their sharp talons to grab as their primary defense. Birds such as owls, vultures, and Osprey will also use their beak in defense. Once secure, place it in a box or container, and bring it to the College of Veterinary Medicine Emergency Room located at 1010 Wire Road, Auburn, AL 36849. There is no need to call anybody in advance and they can be dropped off 24/7.

If you are closer to Birmingham, the Alabama Wildlife Center accepts ALL birds (including Raptors).

Please call us at 334-844-6347 if you have any questions about what to do if you find an injured raptor.