Bird rescue
Department of Conservation officers or bird rehabilitators with a valid permit are trained to handle native birds. The sooner a bird is given to them, the better its chances of recovery.
What to do if you find a sick or injured kererū?
A kererū on the ground is easy prey for cats and dogs, so please act as quickly as possible. If you hear a thud on your windows, check the ground outside for injured kererū. If you find a dead native bird, contact your local Department of Conservation office.
If you find a band or a bird with a band on its leg, contact the New Zealand Banding Scheme by phone: (04) 471 3294 or e-mail: bandingoffice@doc.govt.nz
Take action
Karin Wiley of the Native Bird Rescue Wellington Trust suggests the following actions if you find an injured or sick kererū:
- Have ready a ventilated box with a secure lid around 60 cm long x 30 cm wide x 40 cm deep.
- Pour warm water into a hot-water bottle and place it at the bottom of the box with newspaper on top.
- Quietly approach the bird with an absorbent towel. Use the towel to pick it up, covering its eyes and holding its wings to prevent (further) injury.
- Place the bird in the box on its stomach and shut the lid tightly.
- Put the box in a dark quiet corner away from pets and children, and immediately contact DOC or if you are in the Wellington area call: THE NEST TE KŌHANGA – at Wellington Zoo ph: 04 381 6755
- For a list of New Zealand Bird Rescue Centres click here: www.nzbirds.com/more/centres.html