Waterfowl refers to birds which live on ponds and lakes such as Swans, Geese, Ducks and their smaller cousins such as Coots and Moorhens.

When should I help waterfowl?

	If the bird has been hit by a car or attacked by a dog.
	The bird should be treated for shock and properly assessed for injuries.
	If the bird has fishing line tangled round its body or coming out of its beak
	Check that it is line though and not just pond weed!
	If the bird has an obvious injury
	If you can see a wound or a leg or wing is visibly damaged the bird will need help.
	A bird with a deformed wing.
	There is a condition called Airplane or Angel Wing which causes part of the wing to sit at a right angle to the body. These birds will never fly and need permanent sanctuary.
	A pet bird abandoned in the wild.
	These birds often can't even swim let alone fly and are easy prey for foxes. They are easily spotted as they are usually tame and often white or brightly coloured.
	A bird which is "oiled"
	Babies which are alone or groups without a parent.
	Observe to see if Mum returns and if not call for help.
	A duck nesting in an unsuitable location
	For example a garden, hanging basket, on a swimming pool etc. They'll be vulnerable to predators & may need to be relocated. Call a wildlife rescue for detailed advice.
	A swan with its foot tucked up on its back.
	This is quite normal. If you are worried that the bird is injured, try to tempt it onto land with some food to see if it can walk normally.

What Should I Do Next?

A small bird such as a duck, coot or moorhen can be picked up and placed in a secure box. They are not dangerous but can peck quite hard so best to pick them up in a towel. They will struggle and can be suprisingly strong. It's worth trying to point the rear end away from you as well as they have a habit of relieving themselves when scared and this will be liquid and travelling at a suprising velocity!

Any fluffy babies which you pick up can also be placed in a cardboard box. It is essential that you keep them warm and dry. Ducklings cannot dry themselves (whilst they are fluffy Mum does it for them) and if they are allowed to get wet they can quickly fade. If you pick up a baby which is very wet you can dry them lightly with a warm (not hot) hair dryer.

If you find a swan or goose in need of assistance it is not advisable that you attempt to rescue them yourself. Although claims that swans can break your arm with their wing are somewhat exagerated, they are powerful birds and difficult to handle.