Found an Injured Bird in Aransas County? Here’s How Our Community Can Help
Aransas Pathways has recently received calls from residents concerned about injured, sick, or orphaned birds. Each call reflects something special about Aransas County: our community notices wildlife, cares about its well-being, and is willing to help. Knowing whom to contact—and what to do while waiting—can give an injured wild bird its best chance of recovery. Contact Wings Rescue Center in Rockport When a wild bird needs assistance, contact Wings Rescue Center, a nonprofit avian rescue and wildlife rehabilitation organization based in Rockport, Texas. Founded in 2016 by Kay Adams, Wings Rescue Center is a state- and federally permitted rehabilitation center serving Aransas County and surrounding communities. Guided by its mission of “Rescue, Rehab, Release and Education,” Wings cares for birds ranging from hummingbirds and hatchlings to pelicans and birds of prey. Its goal is to rehabilitate injured, sick, and orphaned birds and return them safely to the wild whenever possible. A Volunteer-Run Community Resource Wings Rescue Center is operated entirely by volunteers. Its dedicated team responds to rescue calls, provides specialized feeding and care, maintains enclosures, coordinates medical treatment, and prepares recovering birds for release. Because volunteers may be caring for other birds, responding to rescues, or unavailable after hours, someone may not always answer immediately. If your call is not answered, leave a detailed message that includes: Your name and telephone numberThe bird’s locationIts approximate size or species, if knownA description of its conditionWhether the bird is contained or still outdoors Providing clear information helps volunteers understand the situation and determine the safest response. What to Do When Wings Rescue Center Is Closed If you find a small, non-dangerous bird and can safely contain it, place it in a secure, ventilated cardboard box lined with a clean towel. Keep the box indoors in a dark, quiet, temperature-controlled area away from children and pets until Wings Rescue Center reopens or a permitted rehabilitator provides instructions. Do not give the bird food or water unless directed by a wildlife rehabilitation professional. Feeding or giving water incorrectly may cause additional harm. Never attempt to handle a raptor, heron, pelican, or another large bird that could injure you. Keep people and pets at a safe distance and wait for professional guidance. Why Wildlife Rescue Matters to Our Community The people of Aransas County are often the first to notice when a wild bird is in distress. By observing carefully, reporting responsibly, and following expert guidance, every resident can help begin a bird’s rescue story. Wings Rescue Center provides the specialized knowledge and rehabilitation care, while concerned residents serve as the eyes, ears, and compassionate hearts of our community. Aransas Pathways is proud to help connect residents and visitors with the people and resources protecting the birds and habitats that make our county extraordinary. Caring for wildlife is part of caring for the place we call home. Wings Rescue Center Contact Information Wings Rescue Center324 W. Third St.Rockport, TX 78382Rescue line: (361) 205-0892Hours: 8 a.m.–5 p.m.Website: www.wingsrescue.com Please save and share this information with your family, neighbors, and fellow nature lovers. When our community knows whom to call and what to do, wildlife has a better chance.
Healthy Hummers
HEALTHY HUMMERS Protecting Our Hummingbirds: A Community Education Event Registration required at wingsrescue.com Date: August 23, 2025 10 AM Location: Wings Rescue center – 324 W 3rd St Rockport, TX Discover how to support the tiny jewels of our skies at this engaging presentation hosted by Aransas Pathways and Wings Rescue Center. Dr. Rebekah Rylander will share expert insights on creating safe environments for both resident and migrating hummingbird populations, offering practical tips to help these remarkable birds thrive in our community. Wings Rescue Center’s Kay Adams will introduce attendees to the organization’s mission and present their inspiring Ambassador birds, providing a firsthand look at wildlife rehabilitation and education efforts. This informative session combines scientific knowledge with hands-on conservation action, perfect for nature enthusiasts and anyone interested in making a positive impact on local wildlife. For more info call: Aransas Pathways 361-556-5308 aransaspathways.com