Hudson sanctuary seeks 'ambulance' drivers to shuttle injured birds

A wild bird rehabilitation centre in Hudson is looking for "ambulance" drivers to pick up birds in need from the Montreal SPCA and drive them safely to its sanctuary in the off-island suburb.

In the warmer months, the need for driversquadruples due to an increase innewborn birds, says Jo-Annie Gagnon, volunteer co-ordinator of LeNichoir.

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Le Nichoir, a non-profit devoted, aims toconserve the localwild bird population.

Gagnonsaid she'shoping to find at least 10volunteer drivers to keep up with demand.

She said domestic cats, smashing into windows and car accidents are among the most common causes of bird injuries.

A fallen nest can also be a major concern often resulting in threetofive babybirds in need of help.

While there is a noticeable increase in injured or abandoned fledglings in the spring and summer months, Le Nichoir's executive directive, Susan Wylie saida number of the rescued birds are accidentally "taken from their parents by people with good intentions."

Wylie encourages people to call in and ask questions before bringing the baby bird to the shelter or SPCA.

Here'sa check list to look overbefore trying to rescue a bird:

• Does the bird look healthy andunharmed?
• Is it alert? Check if the bird's eyes are open and if it's looking for food.
• Is it sitting upright or hopping around?
• Is the bird clean, mostly feathered and fluffy?

If you answered "yes" to any of the following questions, then the bird should most likely be left alone, Wylie said.

SeeLe Nichoir's websitefor more details.

Potential drivers should have a validlicence and access to their own vehicle.

For more informationor to volunteer email:info@lenichoir.orgor call450-458-2809.