What to Do If Your Bird Escapes in Canada

Losing a pet bird is one of the most stressful experiences for any bird owner. The good news is that with quick action, many birds are found within the first 48 hours. Here is your complete action plan.

Immediate Steps (First 30 Minutes)

1. Place the cage outside. If your bird escaped from home, put its cage outside near where it flew away. Leave the door open with fresh food and water inside. Many birds return to their cage when hungry or tired.

2. Play familiar sounds. Play recordings of your bird's favourite sounds, your voice, or other birds. Sound carries far and can guide your bird back.

3. Search the immediate area. Most escaped pet birds will land within a few hundred metres of where they flew away. Look in trees, on rooftops, and under eaves. Bring binoculars.

Within the First Few Hours

4. Post on Lost & Found Birds. Head to lost-found.birdsittingtoronto.ca and submit a detailed report with a photo. Our network of subscribers will be instantly alerted if they match your bird's description and area.