In a creative leap for urban wildlife care, Warsaw Zoo has unveiled the world’s first ‘birdomat’ — an automated drop-off point designed specifically for injured wild birds. Known locally as the “ptakomat,” this innovative system allows residents to safely leave injured birds in a secure locker, from which zoo staff collect them for medical treatment.

The idea behind the birdomat addresses a common challenge faced by wildlife rescue organizations: how to receive injured animals safely and efficiently without causing additional stress or harm. With this system, individuals who find hurt or distressed birds can place them in a specially designed box inside the locker at any time, ensuring 24/7 accessibility.

Once deposited, the birds are promptly picked up by trained veterinary staff who provide necessary care and rehabilitation. The birdomat serves as an important link between the public and professional wildlife care services, promoting community involvement in conservation efforts.

This initiative comes amid growing awareness of the threats faced by wild bird populations, including habitat loss, pollution, and urban hazards. By streamlining the intake process, the Warsaw Zoo hopes to improve survival rates for injured birds and enhance public education about local wildlife.

The birdomat also exemplifies how technology and conservation can intersect to create practical solutions. It offers a humane and accessible way for people to contribute to wildlife protection without needing specialized knowledge or equipment.

As cities around the world continue to expand, initiatives like Warsaw’s birdomat underscore the importance of fostering coexistence between humans and nature. For many residents, the birdomat provides a simple, yet powerful way to make a difference in protecting the environment right at their doorstep.

The zoo plans to monitor the system’s usage closely and explore opportunities to expand similar services to other animal species, potentially setting a model for urban wildlife care worldwide.