In Spring (and early Summer), we often find baby birds on the ground. This could be for many reasons. Perhaps they’re learning to fly. Maybe they’re ground dwellers. They may have been blown or fallen out of a nest. Or they may indeed be injured.
It is important not to kidnap babies but also not to leave a baby in a dangerous situation, so how do you know what to do? Keep in mind, a baby bird’s best chance for survival and learning much needed skills is with its family.
So, first assess the situation from a distance. Don’t rush in. You may be seen as a big predator and startle or scare the bird into a worse situation. Once you’ve arrived on the scene, ask yourself the questions according to the below flow chart. This will help you decide whether it is safe to leave the bird, pop it in a safer spot or intervene.
If you don’t know what bird it is, or want to check what is normal behaviour – take a photo and ask wildlife group or rescue group for ID. If you are putting a baby bird back in a safe spot, never move it too far from where you found it. If you take a baby bird to a vet or carer, take note of exactly where you found it. Carers may try to reunite later.
If it is getting dark and you fear danger from predators and can’t get a wildlife rescuer, gently place it in a box or basket in a warm area with a smooth towel and somewhere to snuggle, then release it again at first light. Do not give it food or water.
If you have any doubts or concerns at all, don’t hesitate to ring a rescue group for advice, and remember, it is illegal to keep any native wildlife without a licence.
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