Finding a baby bird on the ground can stir a mix of concern and compassion. Your first instinct is to help, but it’s crucial to know that not every fledgling on the ground is in trouble. Many are simply in the awkward “fledgling” stage, learning to fly under the watchful eyes of their parents. Before you intervene, taking a moment to assess the situation is the most important step you can take.
Is This Baby Bird Really an Orphan?
First, identify whether the bird is a nestling or a fledgling. Nestlings are mostly featherless, with eyes closed, and should not be out of the nest. If you find a healthy nestling on the ground, you can gently place it back in its original nest. Fledglings are mostly feathered, can hop around, and are often found on the ground as they learn to fly. If the fledgling appears healthy and is in a safe location, the best course of action is to leave it alone. Its parents are likely nearby, waiting for you to leave so they can continue feeding their youngster.
The Ultimate Guide on How to Take Care of a Baby Bird
If you’ve determined the bird is truly orphaned or injured—for instance, if it’s shivering, visibly wounded, or you’ve witnessed a parent bird die—then it needs your help. Your immediate goal is to provide warmth and safety. Gently pick up the bird and place it in a small, ventilated box lined with soft, non-fraying cloth like a t-shirt or paper towels. A heating pad set on low under half the box or a sock filled with warm rice can provide crucial warmth. Keep the box in a quiet, dark place away from pets and children to minimize stress.
What to Feed a Baby Bird (And What to Avoid)
Feeding a baby bird is delicate. Never offer water directly into its mouth, as it can easily aspirate. For a short-term emergency, you can offer a tiny bit of soaked cat or dog food squeezed of excess water, or crushed hard-boiled egg. Do not feed bread, milk, or worms, as these can be harmful. The best and safest option is to get the bird to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible, as they have the proper diet and expertise to give the bird its best chance at survival.
Finding Professional Help for the Bird
Your care is a vital first step, but a baby bird’s best hope is a professional. Contact a local wildlife rehabilitator, animal shelter, or veterinarian who accepts wild animals. They have the training and permits to properly raise and eventually release the bird back into the wild. Your compassionate intervention provides the critical bridge that gives a vulnerable creature a second chance at life.
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