05/31/2024
It is baby bird season!
We get quite a few calls during baby bird season as the consistency with which members of the public interact with baby birds increases. To help, we put together this very simplified guide with some basic steps.
The most important things to remember when interacting with baby birds are:
- Use a licensed rehabilitator as a resource! If you are unsure what do do, it is always best to speak with a professional to get some advice.
- It is a myth that birds will not care for their young if handled by humans. Birds will still care for young that are handled and returned to nests!
- Fledgling birds naturally spend time out of the nest on the ground and mom and dad will still help care for them. It is best to just keep your distance from fledglings and give them the time they need to gain flight coordination and strength.
- Do not attempt to feed baby birds! Improper feeding and improper food can cause a host of issues for baby birds.
If you find an injured or orphaned animal after hours and are unable to reach our team during our operational hours 9-5 daily, keep animals in a ventilated, enclosed carrier and keep them in a dark, quiet space. Reduce your contact with animals as this can cause additional stress. Leave a message with our hotline and if they are an animal we accept at our facility, bring them to us for care when we reopen.
Thank you to all brave rescuers out there!