Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital in Sidlesham has seen a significant surge in admissions, with 60 new patients brought into its care during the week ending 6 September 2026.
Staff at the Chichester-based facility report that pigeons and collared doves make up a large portion of the recent arrivals. The charity believes that recent high winds and seasonal weather changes are to blame, with many young birds falling from nests or suffering injuries from collisions with buildings.
The influx has placed a substantial strain on the hospital’s resources. Many of the young birds require intensive care, including being tube-fed by hand several times a day until they are strong enough to feed themselves.
Guidance for residents
With the hospital currently operating at high capacity, staff are urging members of the public to follow specific procedures before bringing in any injured or orphaned animals.
A spokesperson for the hospital emphasised that anyone finding a wildlife casualty must telephone 01243 641672 before making the journey to Sidlesham. This ensures the hospital has the necessary space and specialised care available for the specific animal.
For the winter season, which runs from September to March, the hospital has also updated its admission hours. Casualties can be accepted between 08:30 and 18:30 daily. Outside of these hours, the charity advises residents to contact a local 24-hour veterinary surgery for emergency stabilization.
How to support the hospital
The hospital, a registered charity (1199715), is currently running a nature-based learning appeal. Until mid-September, the financial services firm Aviva is doubling all donations made to this specific fund, providing a limited-time opportunity for local supporters to see their contributions have twice the impact.
Further information on how to assist or donate can be found on the Brent Lodge Wildlife Hospital website. The hospital is located at Cow Lane, Sidlesham, PO20 7LN.
