I Found a Pet Bird — What Should I Do?

Congratulations on being a kind human! Finding a pet bird and taking the time to help is a wonderful thing. Here is a step-by-step guide to safely caring for and reuniting the bird with its owner.

Step 1: Secure the Bird

If the bird is inside your home or on your balcony, close all windows and doors. If outside, try the techniques in our "How to Catch an Escaped Budgie" article.

Once caught, place the bird in: - A cage (ideal) - A box with air holes (temporary) - A quiet room with the door closed

Step 2: Provide Basic Care

- Water — a shallow dish. Not a deep bowl, as small birds can drown.
- Food — birdseed mix, millet spray, or even plain cooked rice in a pinch. Avoid avocado, chocolate, and anything salty.
- Warmth — keep the bird at room temperature, away from drafts.

Step 3: Check for Identification

- Leg band — many pet birds have a small coloured or metal band on one leg. Write down any numbers or letters.
- Microchip — uncommon in birds, but some vets can scan for one.

Step 4: Report It

Go to lost-found.birdsittingtoronto.ca and submit a "Found" report.
Include a photo (the single most important thing for matching).
Post in local community Facebook groups and Nextdoor.
Call nearby vet clinics to let them know.

Step 5: Wait and Monitor

Most pet bird owners discover their bird is missing within hours and start searching immediately. Check our portal for matching "lost" reports in your area.

How Long to Keep a Found Bird

There is no legal requirement in most Canadian provinces, but the ethical standard is to make a reasonable effort for at least 30 days before considering permanent adoption.

Found a bird and need to post it? Submit a found bird report now.