How To Remove a Trapped Hummingbird

This has probably happened to most of us; particularly those of us who live in a rural setting. We find birds that have been wrongly trapped inside our homes, sheds, garages and other structures and we need to find a way to safely and quickly remove them back outside.

The same is true for hummingbirds, but because of their small size, this can sometimes be quite a challenge.

Hummingbirds, in particular, become quite stressed, and it can really lead to their detriment if not helped in some way. The more the bird struggles to find an exit, the more energy it expends, and the more likely they are to recklessly run into windows and screens and could tangle themselves quite badly in curtains or drapes.

Eventually, the hummingbird will ultimately expend all of its energy and will become quite docile and vulnerable, which is not a good thing if/when you are able to release the bird.

Escape Plan

First of all, make sure the area in which the bird is trapped is sectioned off as best as possible. We don’t want the bird traveling to another part of your home, for example, and starting the process all over again.

Secondly, where and when possible, turn off all the lighting, leaving any and all exits as bright as possible, you can also try a feeder with this step, but sometimes the birds end up much too frightened and stressed out to think about eating.

You can use the aid of a broom or similar object to attempt to “shoo” the bird toward the exit. Use extreme care and caution if you opt for this method, you don’t want to accidentally hit the bird, just simply try and guide it toward the exit.

As a last resort, you can attempt to pick up the bird. We probably don’t need to tell you that this tiny, exhausted bird is very vulnerable and delicate, so use extreme caution when handling hummingbirds. Never use a net or a towel to catch or carry a hummingbird; this is certainly a recipe for serious injury to the bird.

Now that you have safely removed the bird, ensure that the area is somewhat “bird-proofed”. You can do this by removing any red lures surrounding the entrance to your home, garage or shed, and making it a strict habit to keep the doors closed whenever possible.