I found an injured bird with a hard skin head wound. Is it infected?

Hi there, These wounds appear superficial from the photograph. It would be best to have him seen by a doctor familiar with birds for a full physical to ensure he doesn't have any underlying bruises or fractures from the fights. They can also discuss best husbandry and care practices with you for long term health. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck to you and your new friend!

Thanks for reaching out about your rescued bird. By the photos, he appears very depressed and weak. A veterinary clinic or wildlife rehabilitation society should be contacted. Provide heat support in the 80-85 F range, offer water via a small syringe. Only chance is to try and nurse back to health. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Blue and including photos. A veterinary visit is recommended as soon as you can arrange. Checking to ensure beak is not damaged is important. Monitor for appetite and actual ingestion of food as they will often play with the food and not eat. Easiest to monitor fecal production. Pain medication and antibiotics can be provided during your veterinary visit if deemed necessary. Good luck.

Contact your veterinary clinic. They can provide information regarding any local wildlife rehabilitators. The duckling can be care for until it recovers. This will give it the best chance at eventual release back into the wild.

Thanks for reaching out about Dawn and including photos. This appears to be a contusion. Could she have flown into something? Any other animals that could have possible harmed her, other birds or cats? Monitor appetite and activity. If lesion grows or Dawn becomes weak or stops eating, a veterinary visit is recommended. Good luck

If you've found a wild bird, the best option is to try and find a wildlife rehab near you that can take the bird in, treat it, and safely release it. If she is becoming listless or unmoving, and isn't wanting to eat or drink, I would be concerned that her condition is worsening and veterinary care should be sought (even if it isn't an avian specialist.)

Thanks for reaching out about this little bird. Often cat attacks are fatal for birds, as there are some pretty bad bacteria in the mouths and claws of cats. If this little bird is still in your possession, I would recommend contacting a wildlife rehabber in your area to see if they would be able to treat it with antibiotics and then rehabilitate it while its feathers grow back. Without its feathers, it makes it very difficult for birds to keep warm, even in warmer climates. If some of the tail feathers are missing, it can make it difficult for them to fly appropriately as well. To find wildlife rehabilitators in your area, you can search the NWRA website or the California wildlife rehabilitators group as well. Additionally, you may be able to contact a veterinarian who is comfortable seeing birds as they may have contacts for wildlife rehabilitators in the area as well. I hope this gives you a place to start, and thank you for caring about this wild bird!