A Guide to Saving Fallen Baby Birds

Baby birds are fragile creatures that can easily fall out of their nests. Whether it's due to a strong gust of wind or a predator, these young birds need our help to survive. But what should you do if you find a baby bird that has fallen from its nest? Here are some tips on how to help these little ones.

Assess the Situation

The first thing you should do when you find a baby bird on the ground is to assess the situation. If the bird is fully feathered and hopping around, it is likely a fledgling and is learning to fly. In this case, you should leave the bird alone and let it continue to learn and explore.

However, if the bird is still young and doesn't have any feathers, it is a nestling and needs help.

Find the Nest

If you find a nestling, the next step is to try to find its nest. Look for a nest that is close by and safe to reach. Once you find the nest, gently place the bird back in it. Contrary to popular belief, birds have a poor sense of smell, so your scent won't cause the parents to abandon the bird.

Create a Temporary Nest

If you can't find the original nest, or if it's damaged, you can create a temporary nest for the bird. Find a small box or basket and line it with soft materials, such as tissue paper or grass. Then, place the bird inside and put the nest in a quiet, safe location.

Provide Warmth and Food

If the bird is injured or cold, it may need extra care. You can provide warmth by placing a heat source underneath the box, such as a heating pad or hot water bottle. Be sure to wrap the heat source in a towel or cloth to prevent burns. If the bird is hungry, you can feed it with a dropper. Mix equal parts of water and unflavored Pedialyte and add a pinch of sugar. Use the dropper to feed the bird a few drops at a time.

Contact a Wildlife Rehabilitator

If the bird is severely injured or if you're unable to care for it, contact a wildlife rehabilitator. These professionals are trained to care for injured and orphaned wildlife and can provide the necessary medical care and nutrition. You can find a local wildlife rehabilitator by contacting your state's Department of Natural Resources or a local animal control agency.

Take Away

Finding a baby bird that has fallen from its nest can be a stressful experience. However, with these tips, you can help these little ones get back on their feet and thrive in their natural habitat. Remember to always assess the situation, find the nest or create a temporary one, provide warmth and food, and contact a wildlife rehabilitator if necessary. By following these steps, you can give baby birds a second chance at life.