Spotting a baby animal by itself doesn't necessarily mean it's an orphan.
Many wildlife parents leave their young alone during the day, sometimes
for long periods. The parent is usually nearby and quite conscious of her
young. Also, keep in mind that despite their small size, many young
animals are actually independent enough to fend for themselves.
If a wild animal exhibits any of the above signs, you should
immediately call our hotline (707) 526-WILD.
All birds are easily traumatized, but especially adult birds. When
sufficiently frightened, a bird's brain releases certain enzymes that
shuts down living functions - permanently. DO NOT HANDLE THE
BIRDS, OR LOOK AT THEM ANY MORE THAN IS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY. STRESS
KILLS!
I Found a Baby Bird
Newly-hatched, naked and partially feathered nestlings need to be kept
warm. It is difficult to keep them warm enough to survive, but not too
warm. Their parents brood them at about 93 degrees F. Birds should always
be able to escape from their heat source if too warm. Make every effort to
transport young birds to one of our wildlife rehabilitators immediately.
Nesting/Fledgling Songbirds: If you find a baby songbird hopping
around the yard, it is probably not injured, even if it doesn't appear to
be flying well. Fledgling birds are like toddlers: they can hop and fly a
little bit, but they need a few days to develop their skills. Parent birds
continue to feed and look after these fledglings for up to two months, so
it is important to leave these babies with their parents. The parents
teach the babies how to forage for food and recognize dangers during this
time. If the fledgling has been attacked by a cat or dog, or it appears
injured, it should be put into a paper bag or box with ventilation holes
and contact us immediately.
Unfeathered or partially feathered nestling bird that has fallen
from the nest: The best thing to do is to try to put it back into the
nest. If an entire nest has blown out of a tree, the nest and babies can
be put back up in the tree. Parent birds will not reject their young just
because they were handled by humans. If you can't return the baby bird to
its nest, make an artificial nest out of a small margarine tub (poke
drainage holes in the bottom), strawberry basket or box lined with natural
materials, such as dried grasses, pine needles or small twigs. Watch from
a distance to ensure the parents have returned to care for the bird, or
check for fresh droppings in the nest as a sign they are being fed. If the
bird is cold or seems injured, or if you need assistance, contact us
immediately. It is critical that young songbirds be given to an expert
immediatly, because they must be fed every 20-30 minutes from
sunrise to sunset. This must ONLY be done by an experienced avian
caregiver. Inexperienced persons are more likely to cause serious
problems.
For
more info. on what to do if you've found a baby bird, click here
For advice on preparing a box for
the bird, click here
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I Found an Adult Bird
Unlike baby birds that will gape for food from anyone, adult birds are
very frightened of people! The best way to help an injured adult bird is
to prepare a box (before capturing the bird if possible) by placing
ventilation holes in the top of the box and placing a towel or paper
towels on the bottom of the box for traction. Gently pick up the bird with
a washcloth or appropriately sized towel. Place the bird in the box and
put the box in a quiet room, away from extreme temperatures. Contact us
immediately.
If you find an injured owl or hawk, approach these animals with great
caution. Do not attempt to pick up the bird as their talons and beaks can
be dangerous. Call your local wildlife rehabilitator, animal control, or
State wildlife agency for assistance.
Wild animals, just like family pets, need professional care when they
are sick or injured. Broken bones and traumatic injuries or diseases need
veterinary care. If you find an injured bird, contact us immediately.
Preparing
for Transport
If you have found an injured bird, call us immediately. Although it may
be tempting to try to raise or help the bird yourself, caring for birds
requires special skills and facilities. It is also against the law for you
to do so.
The best way to contain and transport an injured wild bird is in a
cardboard box with lid. The box needs to be large enough so that the bird
fits comfortably in it without being cramped. Punch a few air holes in the
tops and sides and put a towel on the bottom so the bird is not on a
slippery surface. Small birds may be safely transported in a paper bag
with ventilation holes. For larger birds, pet carriers can also be used.
Provide a quiet, dark place away from children and pets for birds to rest
while waiting for transport. It will help keep it calm, reduce additional
stress and prevent it from causing further injury to itself. Speak quietly
and do not play the radio in your car.
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Page last updated October 28, 2006
