What to do with abandoned baby birds in nest?

Table of Contents

If you find abandoned baby birds in a nest, your first instinct should be to observe from a distance to confirm they are truly abandoned; if intervention is needed, contacting a licensed wildlife rehabilitator is crucial for their survival.

The discovery of a seemingly abandoned baby bird in a nest can be a concerning experience. Your immediate reaction will likely be driven by compassion, but it’s critical to understand the situation before taking action. In many cases, what appears to be abandonment is actually a normal part of the birds’ lives. Hastily intervening can do more harm than good. This article provides expert-backed guidance on what to do with abandoned baby birds in nest?, enabling you to respond responsibly and effectively, ensuring the best possible outcome for these vulnerable creatures.

Understanding Bird Parenting

It’s important to understand that bird parenting isn’t always a constant, visible presence. Many parent birds leave their nests for extended periods to forage for food. They may also be scared away by human presence.

Fledglings vs. Nestlings: Differentiating between fledglings and nestlings is vital. Nestlings are featherless or only partially feathered and unable to leave the nest. Fledglings have most of their feathers and are learning to fly, often hopping around on the ground near the nest.
The Role of Parents: Parent birds often continue to feed fledglings even after they leave the nest. Observing from a distance for an hour or two can reveal if the parents are still caring for the chicks.
Normal Behavior: It is normal for fledglings to be on the ground as they learn to fly. Their parents will still feed them. Intervening too quickly can disrupt this learning process.

Assessing the Situation

Before you intervene, carefully assess the situation. This will help you determine if the baby bird truly needs help.

Observe from a Distance: Watch the nest and surrounding area for at least an hour or two from a safe distance (indoors is best) to see if the parent birds return. Avoid getting too close, as your presence might scare the parents away.
Check for Injuries: Look for any visible signs of injury, such as broken wings, bleeding, or difficulty breathing. Injured birds require immediate professional help.
Assess the Nest: Examine the nest itself. Is it damaged or destroyed? Is the nestling in danger of falling out?

Intervention Strategies: What to Do and What Not to Do

Once you’ve assessed the situation, you can decide on the appropriate course of action.

If the Nestling is Uninjured and the Nest is Intact: The best course of action is usually to leave the nestling alone. The parents are likely still caring for it.
If the Nestling Has Fallen Out of the Nest and the Nest is Accessible: Gently return the nestling to its nest. Birds cannot smell humans, so it’s a myth that the parents will abandon it if you touch it.
If the Nest Has Been Destroyed: If possible, create a makeshift nest using a small basket or container lined with soft materials like paper towels or dry grass. Place the makeshift nest as close as possible to the original nest site. Observe if the parents return to the new nest.
If the Nestling is Injured or the Parents Do Not Return: Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator immediately. These professionals have the expertise and resources to provide the necessary care for injured or truly abandoned baby birds.

When to Contact a Wildlife Rehabilitator

Knowing when to seek professional help is crucial.

Injured Birds: Any bird with visible injuries (broken bones, bleeding, etc.) needs immediate professional care.
Birds That Appear Weak or Sick: Signs of illness include lethargy, inability to stand, or labored breathing.
Orphaned Birds: If you have observed the nest for several hours and the parents have not returned, or if you find multiple dead nestlings in the nest, the bird is likely orphaned.
If You are Unsure: When in doubt, it is always best to contact a wildlife rehabilitator for guidance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Several common mistakes can harm abandoned baby birds.

Feeding the Bird: Do not attempt to feed the bird unless instructed to do so by a wildlife rehabilitator. Improper feeding can cause serious health problems.
Keeping the Bird as a Pet: It is illegal to keep wild birds as pets. Furthermore, they require specialized care that most people cannot provide.
Assuming Abandonment Too Quickly: As previously mentioned, parent birds often leave their nests for extended periods. Observe from a distance before intervening.
Using Milk: Do not give milk to baby birds. They are lactose intolerant.

Resources for Help

If you need assistance, there are several resources available.

Local Wildlife Rehabilitators: Search online for licensed wildlife rehabilitators in your area.
Animal Shelters: Local animal shelters may be able to provide guidance or refer you to a wildlife rehabilitator.
Veterinarians: Some veterinarians specialize in avian care and can provide assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does a healthy baby bird look like?

A healthy baby bird will be alert, responsive, and have bright eyes. Its feathers (if present) will be clean and well-groomed. It should also be vocalizing and begging for food when its parents are nearby. Conversely, a lethargic, unresponsive bird with dull eyes and ruffled feathers may be sick or injured.

How long can baby birds survive without food?

The survival time without food depends on the age and species of the bird. Young nestlings can only survive a few hours without food, while older fledglings can last slightly longer. It’s crucial to act quickly if you suspect a bird has been abandoned.

Can I touch a baby bird?

Yes, you can gently touch a baby bird. Birds have a poor sense of smell, so the myth that the parents will abandon a chick if you touch it is false. However, minimize handling to reduce stress on the bird.

What do wildlife rehabilitators do?

Wildlife rehabilitators are trained professionals who provide care for injured, sick, and orphaned wild animals, including birds. They have the knowledge, skills, and resources to properly treat and raise these animals with the goal of releasing them back into the wild. They provide specialized diets, medical treatment, and a safe environment to promote recovery.

How can I tell if a bird is truly orphaned?

Observe the nest from a distance for an extended period (at least 2-3 hours) to see if the parents return. If you see no signs of parental care, the bird may be orphaned. Also, if you find multiple dead nestlings in the nest, this is a strong indication of abandonment.

What should I do if I find a baby bird on a hot day?

On a hot day, a baby bird can quickly become dehydrated and overheat. Gently move the bird to a shaded area. If it’s a nestling, try to return it to its nest. If you can’t reach the nest or the bird is a fledgling, contact a wildlife rehabilitator for guidance. Providing a shallow dish of water can also help prevent dehydration.

What are common predators of baby birds?

Common predators of baby birds include cats, dogs, raccoons, snakes, and other birds of prey. Keeping pets indoors and providing secure nesting sites can help protect baby birds from predators.

Is it illegal to keep a wild bird as a pet?

Yes, in most countries and regions, it is illegal to keep a wild bird as a pet without the proper permits and licenses. Wild birds are protected by law, and removing them from their natural habitat can disrupt ecosystems and endanger their survival. Furthermore, wild birds require specialized care that most people cannot provide.

What is imprinting and why is it important to avoid?

Imprinting is a process by which young birds form a strong attachment to the first moving object they see, usually their parents. If a human raises a baby bird, it may imprint on humans, making it difficult for the bird to survive in the wild. Wildlife rehabilitators take measures to avoid imprinting by minimizing human contact and using puppets or other techniques to simulate parental care.

What kind of makeshift nest can I create?

A simple makeshift nest can be created using a small basket or container lined with soft materials such as paper towels, dry grass, or cloth. Ensure the nest has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating. Place the nest as close as possible to the original nest site. Avoid using materials like cotton balls or synthetic fabrics that can entangle the bird’s feet.

How can I prevent birds from nesting in unwanted areas around my home?

To prevent birds from nesting in unwanted areas, block off access to those areas with netting or other barriers. Regularly remove nesting materials from potential nesting sites. You can also provide alternative nesting sites, such as birdhouses, in more suitable locations. Avoid using pesticides or other harmful chemicals that can harm birds.

How do I transport an injured or orphaned baby bird to a rehabilitator?

Place the bird in a cardboard box lined with soft materials like paper towels. Keep the box in a quiet, dark, and warm place. Avoid handling the bird excessively. Contact the wildlife rehabilitator to inform them you are bringing the bird and follow their instructions for transportation. Do not offer food or water unless specifically instructed to do so by the rehabilitator.