If the raptor is injured during trapping, what action should you take?

When a raptor is injured during trapping, the most responsible and ethical action is to seek treatment from a veterinarian or a rehabilitation facility. Injured birds require immediate care to assess the extent of their injuries and to provide the necessary medical attention to facilitate their recovery. This action aligns with wildlife protection laws and regulations, ensuring the well-being of the animal.

Seeking veterinary treatment is crucial, as untreated injuries can lead to long-term harm or suffering, potentially endangering the life of the raptor. The proper rehabilitation process may include medical intervention, care, and potentially re-release into the wild once the bird has recovered.

Other options, such as releasing the bird immediately or choosing to keep it without treatment, do not prioritize the health and safety of the animal. Documenting the injury might serve a purpose in certain contexts, but it does not address the immediate need for care, which is the priority when an animal is injured.