Storm Babies, Oil Pigeons, and Goodbye to Dora the Orpington

Wellington delivered another wild week at Flock. Here is a roundup of what has been happening in our care.

Storm Baby Silvereye

After a big storm, we received a tiny silvereye that came in with its nest still intact. Finding a bird still in its nest is actually a good sign - it means it was brought in quickly. We kept the nest in place while the chick stabilised, which helps with stress and temperature regulation.

Pukeko Chicks Growing Fast

Our pukeko chicks are doubling in weight almost daily. These little black fluffballs are among the most entertaining patients we get - full of personality and always getting into mischief.

Oil-Dipped Pigeons

We also received a couple of pigeons that had got into an oily substance. Oil on feathers is serious - it destroys their waterproofing and insulation. Careful washing with the right detergent and a slow dry-out is the treatment, followed by a flight assessment before release.

Farewell Dora

And we said a fond farewell to Dora the Orpington, our long-term guest. Dora had been with us for a while and found a wonderful new home. We will miss her gentle presence around the property!

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Support Flock Birdcare Wellington - we are a volunteer-run charitable trust and every donation goes directly to patient care. Visit https://www.flockwellington.com/donate to make a one-off or monthly contribution. Every feathered friend we release is thanks to people like you.

For what to do when storms ground seabirds, see our seabird rescue guide. And if you ever find a mystery baby bird, our guide to telling baby tūī and starlings apart can help.

Related reading: our guide to Wellington's most searched bird rescue questions and what to do if you find a seabird in Wellington.