1. Purpose and Scope This policy outlines the methods and general justifications for the euthanasia of wild birds, ensuring that such actions are carried out humanely, ethically, and in compliance with relevant legislation and best practices. It applies to professionals involved in wildlife management, veterinary care, rehabilitation, and conservation.
2. Guiding Principles
- Euthanasia should always prioritise the welfare of the bird, minimising suffering and stress.
- It must only be conducted when necessary and justified, following an assessment of the bird’s condition and circumstances.
- All actions must comply with applicable laws, including the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and any other relevant regulations.
3. General Reasons for Euthanasia The decision to euthanise a wild bird may be considered in the following situations:
3.1 Irreversible Injury
- Birds suffering from severe injuries, such as compound fractures, amputations, or significant trauma, that cannot be treated and would lead to prolonged suffering or imminent death.
3.2 Terminal Illness or Disease
- Birds diagnosed with incurable diseases or infections, such as avian botulism, avian influenza, or chronic conditions that cause ongoing pain, distress, or inability to survive in the wild.
3.3 Inability to Rehabilitate
- Birds that cannot recover sufficiently to be released back into the wild due to permanent disability, such as blindness or the loss of flight capability, which significantly impairs their survival.
3.4 Overwhelming Suffering
- Birds in evident pain or distress, such as those with untreatable wounds, emaciation, or parasitic infestations causing unrelievable suffering.
3.5 Ecological or Public Health Concerns
- Birds that pose a significant threat to public health (e.g., carriers of zoonotic diseases) or the local ecosystem, where humane euthanasia is deemed the most ethical solution.
4. Methods of Euthanasia The choice of euthanasia method must be appropriate for the species, size, and condition of the bird, as well as the expertise of the individual performing the procedure. The following methods are recommended:
4.1 Chemical Euthanasia
- Administered by a qualified veterinary professional, injectable barbiturates (e.g., sodium pentobarbital) are considered the most humane method for euthanasia. This method ensures rapid and painless loss of consciousness.
4.2 Cervical Dislocation
- For small birds, manual or mechanical cervical dislocation may be used by trained personnel. This method should only be performed when chemical euthanasia is not practical and must ensure rapid death.
4.3 Inhalation Anaesthesia Overdose
- For small birds, the use of inhalant anaesthetics (e.g., isoflurane or sevoflurane) in a controlled environment is a humane option when available.
4.4 Gunshot
- For large birds or those in remote areas, a single, well-placed gunshot to the head or chest may be used to ensure immediate death. This method must only be performed by skilled personnel using appropriate firearms.
4.5 Decapitation
- Decapitation is considered an acceptable method for certain situations where rapid euthanasia is necessary, provided it is performed swiftly by trained individuals.
5. Decision-Making Process The decision to euthanise a wild bird should involve the following steps:
5.1 Assessment
- Conduct a thorough evaluation of the bird’s physical condition, prognosis, and likelihood of recovery or survival in the wild.
5.2 Consultation
- Whenever possible, consult with a veterinarian or wildlife specialist to confirm the necessity of euthanasia.
5.3 Documentation
- Record the circumstances, reasoning, and method used for euthanasia to ensure transparency and accountability.
6. Training and Competency Individuals involved in the euthanasia of wild birds must receive appropriate training to ensure competence in:
- Identifying when euthanasia is necessary.
- Selecting and performing the appropriate method.
- Handling birds with care and minimising stress.
7. Review and Compliance This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure it remains aligned with current best practices and legal requirements. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary actions or revocation of authorisation to conduct euthanasia.
8. References
- Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
- British Veterinary Association (BVA) guidelines
- International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council (IWRC) standards
- British Wildlife Rehabilitation Council (BWRC) standards
- Animal Welfare Act 2006
9. Contact Information For questions or guidance regarding this policy, contact Wild Bird Rescue Dorset or our Veterinary Practice, Lynwood, Wareham, Dorset.