If you find a baby bird, first check if it’s injured. If it’s unhurt and its feathers are mostly developed, it might be a fledgling learning to fly. In this case, leave it alone and keep pets away.

If the bird is still very young and unable to fly, carefully place it in a safe spot nearby, like a tree branch. If the bird is injured, contact a wildlife rehabilitator or a vet for help. Avoid feeding it yourself.

Nestlings on the Ground

Nestlings are baby birds that are still too young to leave the nest. If you find one on the ground, the first thing to check is if the bird is injured or if it has simply fallen from its nest.

If the bird seems unharmed, it’s often best to gently place it back in its nest if you can find it. Most birds will not abandon their young if touched by humans, contrary to popular belief.

 However, if you can’t find the nest or access it safely, it’s important to contact a wildlife rehabilitator. They can assess the bird’s health and decide if it needs further care or re-nesting.

What to Do

• Look for the Nest: If you can locate the nest, place the baby bird back into it.
• Call a Wildlife Rehabilitator: If you cannot find the nest or if the bird is injured, seek professional help.
• Do Not Feed: It’s essential not to feed the baby bird until a professional has assessed it. Incorrect food can be harmful.

Fledglings on the Ground

A fledgling is an older baby bird that has just started to learn how to fly. They may appear clumsy on the ground and are still learning to navigate their environment. If you find a fledgling, there’s a good chance that it’s not in immediate danger.

These birds are often better off being left where they are. Parents may be nearby, watching and waiting for the fledgling to make its way back to the nest.

Intervening too early can sometimes hinder the bird’s natural development. However, if the fledgling is in a dangerous area, such as near roads or predators, you can help by gently moving it to a safer spot nearby.

What to Do

• Leave It Alone: If the fledgling is healthy and there are no immediate dangers, it’s best to let nature take its course.
• Move to Safety: If the bird is in a perilous location, gently move it to a safer spot nearby.
• Observe from Afar: Keep an eye on the fledgling. If the parents don’t return after a few hours, seek help from a wildlife expert.

Can I Raise the Baby Bird Myself?

Raising a baby bird on your own can be challenging, and in many cases, it is not recommended. Wild birds have very specific dietary and environmental needs, and improperly raising a bird can lead to malnutrition or even death.

If you decide to care for the bird temporarily, it is important to provide the right food, warmth, and shelter. Call a wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible. 

They have the expertise and equipment to care for birds properly. If there’s no other option, you may need to raise the bird temporarily before a professional can take over.

Things to Consider

• Feeding: Different species require specific diets. For example, an insectivorous bird will need protein-rich food, while seed-eating birds need seeds.
• Housing: Keep the bird in a warm, quiet area where it can feel safe.
• Contact a Professional: If you are unsure about what to feed the bird or how to care for it, call a wildlife rehabilitator.

My Neighbourhood is Full of Cats, Dogs, Cars, and Other Potential Hazards

If you live in an area with many predators or hazards, such as cats, dogs, or busy roads, it’s important to be extra cautious when you find a baby bird. These hazards can pose serious threats. 

To the bird’s survival, and you’ll need to act fast to ensure its safety. For instance, if you find a nestling or fledgling in an unsafe location, it’s essential to move the bird to a safer 

Spot, even if you think it should be left alone. If the bird appears weak, injured, or unwell, don’t hesitate to take it to a wildlife rehabilitator.

What to Do

• Move the Bird to Safety: Place it in a quiet, safe location away from potential threats.
• Avoid Handling Excessively: Only handle the bird when absolutely necessary to minimize stress.
• Monitor the Bird: Keep an eye on the baby bird until a professional arrives.

What If I Find an Injured or Orphaned Native Bird?

An injured or orphaned native bird needs immediate care. These birds are often more vulnerable than other animals and require attention from trained professionals. The first step is to assess.

The bird’s condition to determine whether it needs to be taken to a wildlife rehabilitator. If the bird is bleeding, unable to move, or showing signs of trauma, it’s important to contact a wildlife 

Hospital or rehabilitator right away. For birds that appear to be orphaned, it’s crucial to ensure they’re not just fledglings before taking action.

What to Do

• Check for Injuries: If the bird is injured, carefully place it in a box lined with soft cloth.
• Contact a Professional: Call a local wildlife rehabilitator for guidance and immediate care.
• Transport Safely: When transporting, ensure the bird is kept in a quiet, secure box to avoid additional stress.

How Do I Care for a Baby Bird if There Is No Other Option?

If you find yourself in a situation where no wildlife rehabilitator is available, and you must care for a baby bird yourself, it’s essential to provide temporary care. However, this should only be done as a last resort. 

You will need to provide proper food, warmth, and a safe environment. Depending on the species, you might need to feed the bird insects, small seeds, or fruit. Ensure the bird has access to clean water and is kept at the appropriate temperature.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Provide the Right Food: Research the species to understand their dietary needs.
• Keep the Bird Warm: Use a soft towel or heating pad to maintain the bird’s body temperature.
• Limit Handling: Stress can be harmful to baby birds, so handle them as little as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I feed a baby bird if I find one?

No, it’s best to wait for a wildlife rehabilitator’s advice before feeding the bird. Incorrect food can cause harm.

Can I touch the baby bird if I find it on the ground?

Yes, touching a baby bird will not cause its parents to abandon it, but it’s best to return it to the nest if you can.

What if the baby bird is injured?

If the baby bird is injured, contact a wildlife rehabilitator immediately. Do not attempt to treat serious injuries yourself.

How can I tell if a bird is a nestling or fledgling?

A nestling has no feathers or only a few feathers and cannot fly. A fledgling has more feathers and is learning to fly.

Conclusion

Finding a baby bird can be an emotional and challenging experience, but knowing how to properly help it is crucial. Nestlings and fledglings have different needs, so it’s essential to assess the situation and understand what steps to take. 

If the bird is in danger from predators or environmental hazards, take action by moving it to safety.In the best-case scenario, you will be able to return the bird to its nest or let its parents take over. 

If intervention is needed, reaching out to a wildlife rehabilitator is always the best course of action. Raising a baby bird is a big responsibility and should only be done as a last resort. By following these guidelines, you can help the bird survive and thrive in its natural habitat.