What to Do When a Baby Bird Falls Out of Its Nest

Introduction

When encountering a baby bird that has fallen out of its nest, it's important to approach the situation with care and knowledge. By following the proper steps, you can give the bird the best chance at surviving and thriving in its natural habitat.

Determine if the Bird is Injured

The first step in caring for a baby bird that has fallen out of its nest is to determine if it is injured or not. If the bird appears to be injured, it's best to seek professional assistance from a wildlife rehabilitation center or licensed bird rehabilitator. These professionals can provide the necessary care and treatment for the bird, as well as determine if it can be released back into the wild.

Handling the Bird

If the bird appears to be unharmed, you can attempt to return it to its nest. It's important to handle the bird as little as possible, using gloves or a cloth to minimize human scent. This is because the scent of humans may cause the bird's parents to abandon it.

Putting the Bird Back in Its Nest

To put the bird back in its nest, gently place it back inside using gloves or a cloth. It's important to observe from a distance to see if the parents return to care for the baby bird. If the parents do not return within a few hours or the bird falls out again, it may be best to seek professional assistance.

Seeking Professional Assistance

If the bird appears injured or the parents do not return to the nest, it's best to seek professional assistance from a wildlife rehabilitation center or licensed bird rehabilitator. These professionals have the expertise and resources to provide the best care for the baby bird.

The Importance of Proper Care

Proper care is crucial in ensuring the survival and well-being of the baby bird. It's important to follow the recommended steps and seek professional assistance when needed to give the bird the best chance at thriving in its natural habitat.

Feeding and Hydration

If you are caring for a baby bird that has fallen out of its nest, it's important to provide it with proper nourishment and hydration. You can use a small syringe or dropper to feed the bird a mixture of water and mashed up insects. Make sure to also provide fresh water for the bird to drink.

Warmth and Shelter

Baby birds that have fallen out of their nests can be susceptible to cold temperatures and other external factors. It's important to provide the bird with warmth and shelter as needed. A small box lined with soft materials can provide a comfortable and safe environment for the bird.

Monitoring the Bird

It's important to monitor the baby bird's progress and behavior while under your care. Look for signs of improvement and alertness, as well as any signs of distress or illness. If you notice any concerning changes, seek professional assistance.

Preparing for Release

Before releasing the baby bird back into the wild, it's important to ensure that it is healthy and ready to survive on its own. Professional rehabilitators can guide you on the appropriate steps and timing for release, as well as provide advice on how to continue monitoring the bird once released.

Conclusion

Caring for a baby bird that has fallen out of its nest requires patience, knowledge, and care. By following the recommended steps and seeking professional assistance when needed, you can help give the bird the best chance at surviving and thriving in its natural habitat.

As the author of this article, I want to thank you for taking the time to read about what to do when a baby bird falls out of its nest. It can be a frightening and overwhelming experience to come across a helpless baby bird, especially when you're not sure what to do.

Remember, the most important thing you can do is to leave the baby bird alone if it is uninjured and can survive on its own. The bird's parents will likely continue to care for it even if it is on the ground. However, if the baby bird is injured, unable to stand or fly, or is in clear danger from predators or other hazards, you can attempt to help it.

If you do decide to take action, make sure you contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator who can provide proper care for the bird. It is illegal to keep a wild bird as a pet, and attempting to raise it yourself could actually harm the bird in the long run. Rehabilitators are trained to care for injured and orphaned birds and will give them the best chance for survival in the wild.

Thank you again for reading, and remember to always put the bird's needs first when deciding whether or not to intervene. By doing so, you'll be helping to protect these beautiful creatures and ensure their future survival in our natural world.

When a baby bird falls out of its nest, it can be a stressful situation for both the bird and the person who finds it. Here are some common questions people may ask about what to do in this scenario:

1. What should I do if I find a baby bird on the ground?

• First, determine if the bird is injured or in immediate danger. If it appears healthy and uninjured, try to locate its nest and return it there.
• If you cannot find the nest or the bird is injured, contact a local wildlife rehabilitation center for assistance.

2. Can I keep the baby bird as a pet?

• No, it is illegal and unethical to keep wild birds as pets. Additionally, baby birds require specialized care and feeding that most people are not equipped to provide.
• Contact a wildlife rehabilitation center for assistance in caring for the bird.

3. What should I feed a baby bird?

• Most baby birds require a specialized diet that can vary depending on the species. It is important to not feed them anything without first consulting a wildlife rehabilitation center or avian veterinarian.
• In general, it is best to provide them with a commercial avian formula or a mixture of moistened dog or cat food and hard-boiled eggs.

4. How long will it take for the baby bird to leave the nest?

• This can vary depending on the species of bird, but most baby birds will leave the nest within 2-3 weeks after hatching.
• If you find a baby bird that has left the nest prematurely, contact a wildlife rehabilitation center for guidance on how to proceed.

5. How can I prevent baby birds from falling out of their nest?

• If you notice a bird's nest in an unsafe location, such as a low-hanging branch or near a window, try to gently move it to a safer spot.
• Additionally, keep pets indoors or on a leash when outside to prevent them from disturbing bird nests.