What to Do When a Baby Bird Falls Out of Its Nest
Finding a baby bird on the ground can be a shocking experience for any animal lover. Whether it fell out of its nest during a storm or was displaced by a curious pet, your first instinct might be to help. However, there are specific steps to follow to ensure the bird’s safety without causing it further harm. In this article, we’ll guide you through the essential actions to take when you find a baby bird, from assessing the situation to seeking professional help if needed.
Understanding the Situation
Before rushing to rescue a baby bird, it’s important to assess its condition. Not all baby birds that fall from their nests need human intervention. In fact, interfering too much can sometimes do more harm than good. To determine whether you should step in, consider the following:
- Is the bird injured? If the bird appears injured or is bleeding, it’s essential to seek help from a wildlife rehabilitation center or a vet.
- What age is the bird? Young birds are typically categorized into two groups: nestlings and fledglings. Nestlings are very young and unable to leave the nest, while fledglings are older and may be learning to fly. Fledglings that have fallen from the nest are often better off left alone, as they are still being cared for by their parents.
- Is it safe to return the bird? If the bird is uninjured and appears to be a fledgling, returning it to its nest might be the best option. If you can find the nest, carefully place the bird back inside.
Step-by-Step Guide to Helping a Baby Bird
Once you’ve assessed the situation and decided the bird needs help, follow these essential steps to ensure its safety and well-being:
1. Assess the Bird’s Health
Before anything else, you should examine the bird closely. If it’s an injured baby bird, it will need immediate attention. Look for signs of physical injuries such as:
- Broken wings or legs
- Bleeding or open wounds
- Difficulty breathing or other signs of distress
If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to contact a wildlife rehabilitation center as soon as possible. If there are no visible injuries, proceed to the next step.
2. Look for the Nest
If the baby bird seems to be a fledgling and there are no serious injuries, your next step is to locate its nest. This is often the best option, as the parents will continue to care for the bird if it’s safely returned to the nest.
If you can find the nest, gently place the bird back inside. If the nest is out of reach or you can’t locate it, you might try placing the bird on a nearby tree branch where its parents can still find it.
Note: Some people worry that the parents will abandon the bird if it has been touched by humans. However, birds have a limited sense of smell and are unlikely to abandon their young because of human scent. If you’re unsure, you can observe the area from a distance to see if the parents return to feed the bird.
3. Create an Emergency Nest
If you can’t locate the original nest, creating a makeshift nest is another option. You can use a small basket, a cardboard box, or even a hanging flowerpot as a temporary solution. Here’s how to do it:
- Use soft materials: Line the bottom of the container with soft materials like grass, straw, or tissue paper to make it comfortable for the baby bird.
- Place the bird inside: Gently place the bird in the makeshift nest and hang it in a nearby tree. Make sure it’s high enough to avoid predators, but easily accessible for the parents to find.
- Observe from a distance: After setting up the nest, monitor the area from a safe distance to see if the parents return.
4. Offer Food and Water (Only if Necessary)
If the baby bird appears hungry and there are no signs of its parents returning, you may need to provide food and water. However, it’s important to note that feeding a bird should be done with care to avoid harming it.
- For nestlings: Nestlings typically feed on insects, worms, and small seeds. You can offer small amounts of finely chopped food such as mashed hard-boiled eggs, mealworms, or specially formulated bird food.
- For fledglings: Fledglings can eat a wider variety of foods, but it’s still important to avoid feeding them anything too large or difficult to digest.
- Water: Make sure to offer fresh water, but don’t force the bird to drink. Simply place a shallow bowl of water near it.
5. Seek Professional Help if Needed
If the baby bird doesn’t improve or seems to be seriously injured, it’s time to get professional help. Contact a wildlife rehabilitation center or a local vet for advice. They will be able to assess the bird’s condition and provide the necessary care to ensure its survival.
You can find wildlife rehabilitation centers by checking local directories or visiting websites like Wildlife Rehabber.
Common Troubleshooting Tips
Sometimes things don’t go as planned, and you may encounter challenges along the way. Here are some common troubleshooting tips:
- The bird refuses to eat: If the baby bird refuses food, it might be too stressed or not hungry. Keep it in a quiet, safe place and try offering food again after a few hours.
- Parents don’t return: If the parents don’t return to feed the bird, it may be a sign that they are no longer nearby or unable to care for it. In this case, seeking help from a wildlife rehabilitation center is your best option.
- The bird looks weak: A weak or lethargic bird may need immediate medical attention. Contact a professional as soon as possible.
Conclusion: The Importance of Compassionate Action
When a baby bird falls out of its nest, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but it’s essential to act thoughtfully and calmly. Whether you choose to return the bird to its nest, create a temporary home, or seek professional help, always ensure the bird’s safety is your priority. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can give the baby bird the best chance of survival.
Remember, wildlife rescue is not just about rescuing; it’s about respecting nature and making informed decisions. By being mindful of the bird’s needs and not over-interfering, you can play an important role in protecting the delicate balance of nature. If you’re ever uncertain about what to do, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for advice.
For more information on bird rescue and rehabilitation, visit National Wildlife Federation for valuable resources.
This article is in the category Guides & Tutorials and created by FutureSmarthome Team