How to Extract a Hummingbird From a Spider's Web
Hummingbirds often use the webs of spiders to build their nests, and eat spiders for protein. Unfortunately, they occasionally get themselves tangled in the sticky webs. Extricating a hummingbird from a web can be somewhat daunting, given the fragile nature of the hummingbird. Depending on how long the bird has been caught, it may be dehydrated, in shock or injured. Ideally, you should take the bird down, place it in a small box and contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator to care for the bird. However, if none is available in your area, you may have to help the bird yourself.
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Things You'll Need
- Hand towel or washcloth
- Water (to moisten fingertips)
- Small box or carrier
- Eyedropper
- Sugar water
Instructions
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Gently scoop the hummingbird up using a light washcloth or hand towel. Covering the bird's head with the cloth will help keep it calm. Do not be afraid: the hummingbird cannot bite you or harm you in any way.
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Bring the bird to a well-lit but quiet area so you can see the spider's web. Keeping the towel or cloth draped over the bird's head will help keep it still. You can have someone help you by holding the bird, but do not allow kids, dogs, cats or anyone to unnecessarily stare at or touch the bird. Speak softly and keep the area quiet while you handle the bird.
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Moisten your fingers with water and use the tips of your fingers to unwind and peel away the the spider's web.
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Remove all spider's web from the hummingbird's beak, wings, feet and head, as well as any that may be constricting its back or chest.
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Put the bird in a small, dark area, such as a cardboard box or small animal carrier with a towel over it. Allow the bird five to 15 minutes to regroup and recover from its ordeal.
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Use an eyedropper to place a few drops of sugar water (one part white cane sugar to four parts water) on the tip of the hummingbird's beak. This will help rehydrate and energize the bird.
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Take the box or carrier outside, away from traffic, people, dogs and cats, preferably near some flowering trees.
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Open the box or carrier and step back. The bird should fly away on its own within a minute or two. If the bird does not move, or cannot fly away, it may be injured and need more help than you can give. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator, veterinarian or your local humane society for help.
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Tips & Warnings
Avoid having many people hovering around the bird "helping," and keep voices low and soft. Avoid staring at the bird or loud noises near the bird.
Hummingbirds may suffer a heart attack or stroke due to fear or stress of being handled.
References
- Photo Credit hummingbird image by cherie from Fotolia.com
