Report something

Little Owl. Phil Scarlett
Seen something you think we should know about?

Find out how to report found bird rings, wildlife disease, nests and interesting sightings.

Reporting a ring on a dead bird

Valuable information is gained from the reporting of ringed birds found dead. If possible, wear disposable protective gloves when picking up and handling dead wild birds, but if these are not available then a plastic bag can be used as a make-shift glove. When the dead wild bird has been picked up and the ring details noted, the bag can be turned back on itself and tied. It should then be placed in a second plastic bag, tied and disposed of in the normal household waste (lidded bin outside).

Lapwing chick. Photograph by Liz Cutting

Found an injured bird or chick out of the nest?

While BTO and its volunteers monitor birds, we don't serve a veterinary role for wildlife.

If you have found an injured bird, contact your local vet, or the RSPCA (England and Wales), SSPCA (Scotland) or USPCA (Northern Ireland). Alternatively, find a rescue centre on Help Wildlife.

If you have found a chick alive but out of the nest you first need to determine whether it is a fledgling or nestling before intervening. Follow RSPCA's helpful guide for more information.


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