The Raptor Trust has adopted a policy concerning non-indigenous (or non-native) species to allow us to best fulfill our mission. All native wild birds are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, as well as other state and federal laws, and they may only be handled for rehabilitation at licensed facilities such as The Raptor Trust. Non-indigenous species are not protected by state and federal law and they may have other resources for care.
In past years, we have accepted many non-indigenous species (exotic pet birds, domestic farm animals, pigeons, European starlings and English sparrows, for example). We believe that all life has value and we have spent considerable time and effort on all birds that have come through our doors. However, The Raptor Trust has reached a point where our admit numbers have surpassed our facility’s capacity and reasonable expectations of work for our staff. Our policy is based on regulations provided by NJ Fish and Wildlife, which does not allow an unlicensed member of the public to release European starlings or House sparrows back into the wild. While there are other options for care for some non-native species, our resources must remain focused on native species, which by law have no other options for care except at licensed facilities.
- During spring and summer breeding season, The Raptor Trust will no longer be able to care for baby European starlings and House sparrows (also called English sparrows). We will still accept and care for adult House sparrows and adult European Starlings. We must focus our resources on the federally protected birds for which there are no other options. It is not a decision made lightly; however, it is what we must do in order to provide the best quality care to the native we are licensed to rehabilitate.
If you find an orphaned House sparrow or European starling, there are two options we can provide for these species:
- Renesting- You can leave the bird where it is or create a substitute nest nearby. The Raptor Trust has instructions for the best way to do this. We have a limited number of nest boxes available if you need one. This option gives the bird’s parents a chance to care for their young. Click here for re-nesting instructions.
When possible, the best option is always to leave the bird with its natural, wild family, even if a substitute nest is required, and let the natural parents raise it. If you believe the bird is injured, or you are not confident in the identification of the species, try to get details to verify that it is a House sparrow or European starling. Click here for images available on our website to help with identification.
- It is critical that these birds are properly identified. We are available to assist with this.
- You may take a picture and send it to us at 908-581-8896 or email birdcheck@theraptortrust.org.
- Determine where the bird was found. Both of these species are cavity nesters and often make nests in a dryer vent, attic area, in spaces near a window-mounted air conditioner, or in other cavities in the home.
- European starlings appear to have “big yellow mouths”; they have conspicuous yellow mouths as nestlings. House sparrows are completely naked as egglets.
- Humane Euthanasia – Unfortunately, if you are unable to return the bird back to the wild or make a substitute nest, this may be the only choice. You may bring orphaned Starlings and House sparrows to The Raptor Trust for humane euthanasia. You may also contact animal control or a local avian vet for help, though a fee may be involved.
We do not enjoy performing this service, but we are committed to both animal welfare as well as environmental stewardship, and feel the responsibility to provide an option that minimizes the suffering of these animals.
4/29/2020