The What To Do Fledgling Primer

Spring is here and so are the baby birds. Not all baby birds (fledglings) stay in the nest until they can fly. Many find themselves out of the nest and on the ground. Knowing what to do or not to do when you find them can help save the fledglings life. A great resource to get all the information you need if you find a baby bird is the website Help Baby Birds 
 

A Summary of Important things to remember….


  • Almost all species of songbirds leave the nest before they can fly. They spend up to a week hopping around on the ground while their flight ability develops, though they are not independent - their parents fly down and bring food to them on the ground.

  • Before intervening with any bird, visually examine it to see if it’s hurt or injured. If you believe it is injured, contact your local wildlife rehabilitation specialist.

  • Baby birds can be delicate and quick action on your part to return the chick to the nest or to a rehabilitation specialist can make the difference.

  • It’s OK to move a fledgling out of harm’s way if it’s found on a road or busy path.

  • When in doubt, leave the bird alone and contact an expert.

  • Do not cause undue stress to the baby bird by handling them, having crowds around them, or taking them into unfamiliar conditions.

  • If there is noticeable bleeding or injury or the parents don't return after an hour, it might be time to intervene. In those cases, gently place it in a closed box or container and contact your local wildlife rescue service.

  • Do not attempt to give food or water to an orphaned bird


If there is no possible way to return the bird to its parents and intervention is necessary, contact a licensed animal wildlife rescue service. It is illegal to house wild animals and birds without a license, even if it is your intent to release it back into the wild. 

For additional information go to Help Baby Birds