I’ve rescued many critters over my life, so I am excited to share DIY Garden’s Wildlife Rescue Guide that proved most helpful to me. I highly recommend the Guide to animal lovers out there, so when coming across an animal in need, you’ll be armed ~ like I was last night. While watching the sunset, I noticed a bird in my backyard who appeared injured. As birds feed at twilight, the fact that night would soon fall only added to my urgency to help the little guy. Fortunately, this guide came to my rescue.

DIY Garden’s Wildlife Rescue Guide, based in the UK, is comprehensive, covering many of the animals we come across here in the US, like birds, squirrels, deer, foxes, racoons and the wee but adorable mouse. Speaking of adorable, I only wish we had hedgehogs here too! The author shares her heartwarming story about rescuing a hedgehog, which motivated her to write up the Guide to help other animal lovers in need. The Guide also includes a handy chart about rescuing injured birds that proved helpful as well.

Like the Guide suggested, first I monitored the bird. I went outside and gently sprinkled some bird seed, while trying to get a good look at it for injuries. Then I crept back and just watched. The bird was pecking away at the seed but kept flicking one wing out, and then the other, which had me worried there might be some kind of injury. Then, thanks to the Guide, I realized the bird looked exactly like a slightly smaller version of a pair of ground-foraging birds who frequent our backyard. Given it’s the end of April, this indeed could be their youngster getting its sea legs so to speak as it learned to forage, just like the Guide said. Also, the Guide asked if the animal was in any danger. This bird wasn’t, as our backyard is small, fenced and doesn’t attract predators. (I keep my cats indoors these days to protect birds.) I searched the garage to find a box and towel in case I did need to rescue the bird and call our local wildlife center. However, when I returned, the bird flew away. So I’m praying that is indeed a happy ending! However, I’ll be sure to keep my eyes out in case the bird returns, and does need to be taken to a wildlife center for treatment.

Again, please do check out DIY Garden Wildlife Rescue Guide, so you’re prepared when coming across an animal in need. Like the author says, being prepared will help lessen your panic, as well as do what’s hopefully in the animal’s best interest as well.

Sending many thanks and blessings to DIY Garden and all you animal rescuers out there!