18/07/2025
Due to a temporary change in the SSPCA triage of sick and injured wildlife we are aware that members of the public are transporting sick and injured wildlife directly to local vet practices.
Please see the following advice from the SSPCA for public handling of wildlife:
- DO NOT attempt to contain or transport any seabird (e.g seagull), waterfowl (e.g duck) or any form of raptor due to a risk of Avian Flu. The SSPCA should be contacted directly to triage these birds. They should not be brought to the vet practice due to the risk of spreading this notifiable disease.
- Do not interfere with or contain any wild animals which do NOT have “obvious injuries, bleeding or broken bones”, the SSPCA advise to watch from afar and contact them for advice.
- If you are unsure of bird species or cannot contain or transport the animal, the SSPCA should be contacted and will attend.
Reminder to clients
- Wild animals can be dangerous and can pose a risk of both disease and injury to people. Even though you’re trying to help, getting too close can result in injury to yourself and cause further distress for the animal.
- Fledglings are out at this time of year and their best chance at survival is to be left alone close to their mum.
- The SSPCA can still be contacted in these situations above to either attend or provide advice.
- The SSPCA still have National Wildlife Rescue Centres available for rehabilitation with a team of wildlife experts.
- Unfortunately most vet practices do not have appropriate equipment to provide suitable conditions for wildlife.
Please call the SSPCA Helpline on 03000 999 999 for more information or advice.
