Question
A pigeon in my neighbourhood has hurt her wing (see picture below). I would like to take her to a vet and see if they can treat her. If I try to catch her in a cage or a net, she will desperately try to escape by flapping her wings as a natural instinct. In the process, she may hurt herself even more, and there is a risk of the wing getting ripped off completely.
The pigeon regularly comes to my balcony to eat bird food (seeds, foodgrains, etc.) and drink water from a bowl that I place there. She usually comes alone, but quite often comes in a group with about 10 other pigeons. Hence, the pigeon is not exactly my "pet", but I am not a complete stranger either.
Is there anything I can do to help her?
Answer
If she is too injured to escape the best method to catch her is to use a towel. You do not risk injuring her further as you would with a net - their wings and legs tend to get caught and tangled in the netting.
Note: I am aware the bird in the picture is not a pigeon but the method is the same.
Once you have the bird you can place her in a box and bring her to a wildlife rehab or local veterinarian for further guidance.
IMPORTANT
When restraining a bird be sure to not apply too much pressure to the body, this will prevent the bird from breathing and could result in death. Their respiratory system is much more complicated and delicate than ours.
Answered By - Rebecca RVT