Spring brings calls about baby birds who were “rescued,” but now, their savior is unsure what to do. The real question is did they save or kidnap that baby?
Let’s first distinguish between hatchlings, nestlings and fledglings. . .
The first two groups may have eyes that are not yet open; if they are, they may have few or no feathers. These are newly hatched and belong back in their nest so their parents can find and care for them.
Fledglings are feathered, slightly larger, and awkward as they are learning to fly. They may hop or flutter along the ground.
In the case of the former, if they cannot be placed back in the nest, it’s fine to make one and place it in a safe area close to where the baby was found. For fledglings, it’s best to leave them where they are as the parents are likely nearby and monitoring.
If found in your yard, keep pets away from them until the bird is fully flighted. If found elsewhere and they’re in danger from cats, dogs or predators, place them on a nearby limb or bush.
Unless a young bird is injured, appears sick, is in danger, or determined to truly have been abandoned, it’s always best to let its parents care for it and teach it the survival skills it will need. Humans cannot adequately provide that type of training, especially without the added risk of that bird imprinting itself upon their rescuer.
We have several rehabbers in the Valley who will guide citizens or take injured, sick and abandoned birds. If you’re on Facebook, the best resource is the Las Vegas Pigeon Rescuer page where you can post about any bird to get feedback and assistance.
If you are not on Facebook, contact me for referrals. Remember:: If you see a lone little baby bird, it doesn’t mean the parents abandoned it to move to Miami or blew the nest savings on a gambling spree on the Strip. They’re usually nearby, lurking like tiny feathered helicopter parents and waiting for you to leave.
