Mousehole Wild Bird Hospital

Who we are

Mousehole Wild Bird Hospital is Cornwall’s only dedicated wild bird rescue and rehabilitation centre, caring for hundreds of injured and contaminated birds every year. Founded in 1928 on the cliffs above Mousehole, the hospital has nearly a century of experience supporting Cornwall’s unique coastal and marine wildlife. The organisation is built on a long tradition of compassionate, hands‑on care, operating 365 days a year to support wild birds in need. 

The hospital’s work has played a major role in local conservation efforts, from its historic response to the 1967 Torrey Canyon disaster to ongoing rehabilitation of seabirds affected by storms, illness and pollution. Today, the hospital continues to evolve by adopting modern biosecurity measures to keep birds safe in light of recent avian flu challenges. 

Community support and volunteer involvement have always been at the heart of the charity’s mission. The organisation relies on the dedication of volunteers and the generosity of the public to continue its vital work.

Our culture and values

Compassion for Every Bird

We provide expert care for any wild bird in need — treating injuries, contamination, and illness with the goal of releasing birds back into the wild wherever possible. 

High‑Quality, Evidence‑Based Care

For nearly a century we’ve delivered hands‑on, skilled care 365 days a year, continuing a long tradition of dedicated wildlife rehabilitation. 

Protecting Cornwall’s Coastal & Marine Environment

By rehabilitating seabirds, we directly support the health and resilience of Cornwall’s unique marine and coastal ecosystems. 

Safety, Biosecurity & Responsibility

Modern biosecurity measures safeguard all birds in our care and protect the wider environment, especially in response to recent avian flu challenges.

Volunteers at the Heart of Our Work

Volunteers are the backbone of the organisation. Your time, compassion, and reliability make our work possible and directly impact the wellbeing of the birds we care for. 

Rooted in Community & Heritage

For almost 100 years, community support and public involvement have strengthened our mission and enabled us to continue caring for Cornwall’s wild birds.

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

Mousehole Wild Bird Hospital and Sanctuary Association Limited (herein Mousehole Wild Bird Hospital Cornwall or the Hospital) is committed to supporting, developing, and promoting diversity and equality in all of its employment practices and activities and aims to establish an inclusive culture free from discrimination. The Hospital will support and develop by providing everyone with access to facilities, employment, and personal and career development opportunities on an equal basis regardless of race, national or ethnic origin, disability, age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, transgender identity or religion/belief.