Conservation
Rehabilitation & Rescue
Finding an injured or stranded seabird is common after storms and during fledging season. The right first step makes a real difference.
If you find a seabird
- Contact a local licensed wildlife rehabilitator or wildlife authority first.
- Keep people and pets away and keep the bird calm and quiet.
- Do not give it food or water unless a rehabilitator tells you to.
- Protect your eyes. Gannets, herons and loons can strike with sharp bills.
Oiled birds
Do not try to clean an oiled bird yourself. Cleaning is stressful and needs specialist facilities. Report oiled birds to wildlife authorities or an oil spill response organization.
Grounded fledglings
Young shearwaters and petrels are sometimes found on roads or in towns after being drawn to lights. Many rescue programs collect them each year and release them at sea.
The law
In many countries, seabirds are legally protected, and handling or keeping them may require a permit. Your local rehabilitator will know the rules where you live.
Get involved
Involved in seabird conservation, or want to be? Share your project or ask how to help.