Frequently Asked Questions

What birds do you care for?

We care for small bird species. Currently this includes budgies, canaries, and various species of finches and sparrows.

While we occasionally temporarily care for larger bird species, such arrangements are made in conjunction with other bird rescues and veterinary clinics. We unfortunately do not accept surrenders of larger birds from members of the public.

Recently we have expanded our operations to include caring for non-native wildlife in captivity. We are now particularly experienced in caring for house sparrows, Eurasian tree sparrows, European goldfinches and greenfinches.

We can provide care for small birds from day-old hatchlings (straight out of the egg) right through to end of life palliative care.

Where are you located?

We are located in Officer, a suburb in outer south-east Melbourne. We are looking to relocate in 2024 so keep an eye on our social media for updates!

Can I volunteer or do placement with you?

We have had volunteers in the past, however are not currently accepting new volunteers or placement students while we look to relocate the sanctuary to a purpose-built facility.

If you would like to help the meantime, we work closely with Kiwi's New Life Bird Rescue in Wandin North who would love some help - please contact them directly for further details.

Can I adopt a bird from you?

We conduct our bird adoptions through Kiwi's New Life Bird Rescue (most bird types) and Pigeon Rescue Melbourne (pigeons/doves only). We recommend messaging these rescues directly to organise an adoption appointment time, but are more than happy to provide a referral if you need one. Contact us for more information. Thank you for considering adoption!

We also have many resident birds here at the sanctuary, and these are typically not adopted out. This is because our resident birds typically come to us after previous failed adoption attempts, or otherwise have special needs which make them difficult to adopt out. However we may consider adoptions to those who have prior experience in caring for disabled birds, so please feel free to reach out if this applies to you.

Do you assist with wildlife rescues?

Only if the bird is not a native species.

Due to limited space we do not hold a shelter license with DEECA, and as such we are able to care for non-native wildlife only. Please contact us if you need assistance with a non-native pigeon, blackbird, starling, mynah, finch, or sparrow. We have a small network of carers who may be able assist with these birds as an ethical alternative to euthanasia. We do not release these birds back into the wild, but instead provide them with enriched care in captivity.

If you need help for a native bird (such as a wild magpie, lorikeet, or cockatoo), it's best to instead call Warriors 4 Wildlife on 0427 624 240, or Wildlife Victoria on (03) 8400 7300. You can also take them straight to one of the bird vets in Melbourne free of charge.

I have a bird I can't care for. Can you take it?

As of 2024 we are currently at capacity and are unable to accept rehomes outside of emergency circumstances. If you have an urgent situation (such as family death, hospitalisation, homelessness, etc.) please get in touch with us to discuss how we can help. Even if we can't take them on, we will try to find somebody else in our network who can.

If your situation is not an emergency, we ask that you please try to rehome your bird(s) yourself. We can provide some guidance with this but may not be able to care for your birds directly.

We can also assist with caring for non-native wild birds, but natives need will to go to licensed wildlife carers. We are happy to refer you to your closest wildlife carer. Please be aware that it is illegal to keep wildlife as a member of the public.

Do you care for disabled/special needs birds?

Absolutely - we are committed to providing the best life for all birds. If you have a disabled bird, please contact us to discuss what extra care they may need.

Can you recommend a good avian vet?

It can be tricky at first to know where the best bird vets in Melbourne are.

Fortunately we have compiled a handy list of them - click here for a list of vets in Victoria which have avian specialists.

Are you a registered charity/not for profit?

Yes, we are a fully registered not for profit organisation through the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC). As part of this we conduct regular financial reporting and 100% of our proceeds go straight to helping birds in needs.

How can I make a donation?

Monetary donations can be made through PayPal, direct bank transfer, or cash. We also always appreciate donations of quality goods such as bird seed, newspaper, and bird-friendly cleaning supplies. Click here for our donation details. Thank you for your generosity!