Expert: Roger Lederer - 6/20/2008

Question
We have what I believe to be a young downy woodpecker (red band accross back of head, we live in northern NJ). We were outside on our deck and I think it flew into our sliding glass door downstairs. There was much shrieking and it was lying on one side. Seems alert but I would guess the left wing is broken. Using gloves, I put it in a box to keep it away from our dogs. It is here next to us, very quiet but alert. If the top is closed he is fine. If open the shrieking starts. As I have seen this type of bird at our feeder in the past, I put some seed in the box. My question is where do I go from here?  I don't know if there are outfits that will rehab in injured woodpecker?? Should I just return it to the woods someplace hidden and quiet?? I need your advice. Thanks.

Answer
There might be a bird or wildlife rehab center in your area. Call your local AUdubon society or wildlife official if you don't know. If the wing is broken, a vet is needed as the bird will not make it in the wild. Bird seed is not the proper food - it will die on that diet. While you search for help, go to www.ornithology.com/rehab.html for more information. THanks for your concern.