Frequently asked questions
Quick answers about Little Beaks and finding help for a bird.
Need urgent help? Contact a vet or wildlife service directly. Little Beaks is closed to all intakes.
About Little Beaks
Can Little Beaks take a bird?
Little Beaks is currently closed to all intakes, including emergencies. Please contact a vet or appropriate wildlife service directly if a bird needs urgent help.
Are the birds already at Little Beaks still being cared for?
Yes. The birds already living with Little Beaks continue to receive care. Being closed to new intakes does not mean their care has stopped.
What does Little Beaks focus on now?
Our focus is practical education, evidence-informed advocacy and resources to improve companion-bird welfare, alongside ongoing care for our resident birds.
How can I help?
Sharing useful bird-welfare information and directing people to appropriate professional help can make a difference. See our support page for information about supporting Little Beaks.
Finding a bird
I found a bird. Where do I start?
Start with whether the bird may need urgent help. Our guide covers pet birds, wild birds, baby birds and situations where you are not sure.
Can I wait for a reply from Little Beaks in an emergency?
Please contact a vet or wildlife service directly. Do not rely on a website enquiry or social-media message for urgent care.
Does a baby bird on the ground always need rescuing?
No. Some young birds are still being cared for by their parents. The right response depends on the bird’s condition and circumstances; use the guide and ask a wildlife professional if uncertain.
What if I cannot tell whether it is wild or a pet?
Use the “I am not sure” route. A photograph taken from a safe distance and the location can help a vet or wildlife service direct you.
Where should I report a found pet bird?
Tell nearby vets and check existing lost-and-found bird services and local groups. Keep some identifying details private when posting so someone claiming the bird can provide evidence.
For a bird you think may be a pet. If you are unsure, ask a vet or wildlife service to help identify it. Sick or dead wild birds need current official disease advice instead.
If the bird is injured, unwell, or has been caught by a cat or dog, contact a vet now. Do not wait to find its owner. If you are unsure about its condition, ask for urgent advice.
Do not attempt an unsafe capture. Tell the vet if the bird is not contained and ask how to proceed.
Little Beaks is closed to all intakes, including emergencies. Contact an appropriate service directly.
Guidance 1.0.0. Sources checked 2026-10-05. Human veterinary review pending. Review due 2026-11-05.
Care and rehoming
I can no longer care for my bird. What can I do?
Our rehoming guide helps you consider your circumstances and prepare for a responsible handover. Little Beaks cannot offer an intake place.
Can this website diagnose or treat my bird?
No. These resources provide general information and help you find appropriate assistance. A veterinarian needs to assess health concerns.
Do I need an account, and are my guided-help answers saved?
No account is needed. The guided-help questions run in your browser, and your answers are not submitted or saved. Copying, downloading or sharing guidance is your choice.