South Island Wildlife Hospital

I’ve found an injured bird, what do I do? +

Call the hospital helpline (022 106 0170) for further advice. If you are able to catch the bird safely, you can bring it to the hospital during opening hours, but this needs to be coordinated via the phone helpline so that the vet can be informed.

If you see 3 or more sick or dead wild birds in a group, DO NOT TOUCH THEM. Call The Exotic Pest and Disease hotline as soon as possible on 0800 80 99 66.

It’s not a native species, who can help? +

Animal and Bird Hospital on Ferry Road in Christchurch (03 389 9034) or the SPCA may be able to help.

How do I catch a bird? +

Make sure it is safe to do so. Eye protection is important if the birds have sharp beaks (especially seabirds). Hawk’s talons are more dangerous than their beaks. Cover it gently with a towel to pick it up and place it in a box with adequate ventilation.

I can’t catch the bird, who else can help? +

Unfortunately, the Wildlife Hospital is unable to come out to rescue birds, due to our limited manpower and resources. The SPCA or DOC may be able to assist with rescues.

Where is the hospital? +

We are on the car park of Willowbank Wildlife Reserve, 60 Hussey Road, Northwood, Christchurch. If you have arranged in advance to bring a bird to the hospital after 5pm, you may need to access the car park through the exit if the main gate is closed.

How do I look after the bird until I can bring it in? +

Keep the bird, warm, quiet and in the dark. Do not feed the bird.

Should I try and look after the bird myself? +

It is very important that you don’t try and treat a bird yourself at home if it is injured. The chances of a successful outcome are significantly reduced if there is a delay in being assessed by a vet.

My cat caught a bird but it looks okay. What should I do? +

It is often very difficult to see puncture wounds on a bird’s body. Cat’s mouths and claws carry a lot of bacteria, which readily infects the wounds. These birds need antibiotics as soon as possible. Therefore, it is advisable to get the bird assessed by a vet. Giving your cat a bright coloured collar is often more effective than a bell for reducing bird attacks.

I found a baby bird in my garden. What should I do? +

Fledglings that look abandoned are often being watched by a parent who is out of sight. Please click here for more advice on what to do. Please consider keeping your cat indoors during fledgling season. Also, a bright coloured collar is often more effective than a bell at deterring cat attacks.

Do you treat pigeons? +

We are unable to accept non-native, feral pigeons at the hospital. See photos below to see the difference between native kererū and non-native pigeons.

Kererū (native)

Feral pigeon (non-native)

Do you treat magpies? +

No, we do not treat magpies

Do you treat hedgehogs? +

No. Hedgehogs are non-native and classified as pests in New Zealand.

I found a seal on the beach, what should I do? +

If there are signs of injury or disease, please contact DOC on 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362468). Otherwise, just leave it alone and make sure your dog is on a lead.

Is there an after-hours veterinary service in Christchurch? +

There is an After-Hours Veterinary Clinic in Addington. Check out their website for further information: afterhoursvet.co.nz

Are you open to the public? +

No, we are not open to the public. Sick and injured birds need a quiet, low stress environment to support their recovery.

How old do I have to be to volunteer? +

The minimum age requirement is 18 years old.

Can you look after my pets while I’m on holiday or treat my pets? +

No, that is not a service we provide.

Frequently Asked Questions