Spring and summer bring an influx of calls to the Wildlife Center from people who have found baby birds on the ground. It’s a natural reaction to want to help, but in many cases, intervention isn’t necessary and can even do more harm than good.
Young birds often leave the nest before they are ready to fly, while others may accidentally fall. The key is knowing how to tell the difference between a bird that truly needs help and one that is exactly where it should be.
Start by observing, not intervening
Before taking action, take a moment to assess the bird’s condition. An injured bird will need professional care. Signs of injury can include visible wounds, bleeding, a drooping wing, or any known contact with a cat. In these cases, the bird should be transported to a permitted wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible. Do not attempt to feed it or give it water.
If the bird appears uninjured, the next step will depend on its stage of development.
Fledglings: Meant to be on the ground
If the bird is fully feathered and able to hop or flutter, it is likely a fledgling, which is a natural stage of development in a bird’s life. While they may seem vulnerable, it is normal for most fledglings to remain on the ground for up to a week or longer; during this time, their parents will continue feeding them as they learn to fly and find food.
The best course of action is to give the bird space. Keep pets and children away, and avoid lingering nearby. Parent birds are far less likely to approach if people are present. Share a photo of the bird with a permitted wildlife rehabilitator to confirm that it is a fledgling that should remain on the ground.
Nestlings: Help them get back home
If the bird has few or no feathers, it is a nestling and should be returned to its nest if possible. Look carefully in nearby trees or shrubs. Knowing the species can help, as some birds nest in cavities, while others build open nests on branches.
If you locate the nest and can safely reach it, gently place the bird back inside. Before doing so, make sure the bird feels warm. If it is cold, warm it briefly in your hands first. A cold bird returned to the nest may be pushed out by its parents. Contrary to popular belief, bird parents are not frightened off by your scent and will return to feed their baby if it calls for food.
While some nests may seem to be in inconvenient locations, it is important not to move them. Active nests are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and moving a nest could cause the parents to abandon their young.
When the nest is out of reach
If the original nest cannot be found or accessed, a substitute nest can sometimes work. This option is most effective when the original nest has been destroyed or when a young bird cannot be returned to it.
A substitute nest can be made from a small container that is similar in size to a natural nest, such as a basket or plastic tub. Add drainage holes, and line it with materials like twigs or dried grass that will dry quickly after rain.
Secure the new nest as close as possible to the original nest, making sure it is stable and sheltered. Parent birds will need to land on the edge to feed their young, so the structure must be firmly attached.
Give the parents a chance
After returning a bird to a nest or a substitute nest, monitor from a distance. Ideally, watch from indoors or somewhere out of sight. If the parents do not return within several hours, contact a wildlife rehabilitator for guidance.
Prevention makes the biggest difference
Many situations involving baby birds can be avoided with a little awareness. Most young birds are brought to the Center due to injuries caused by domestic pets. Keeping cats indoors and supervising dogs when they’re outside can make a big difference. If you know birds are nesting nearby, be sure to give them extra space during this time.
Sharing this knowledge with neighbors, friends, and family can help reduce unnecessary rescues and keep young birds where they belong: in the wild, under the care of their parents.
For more information about what to do if you find a baby bird, visit this page of our website.
