Encountering a fallen baby bird can be a concern for many, but it’s crucial to know the right approach. In this article, we provide professional insights on whether it’s safe to pick up a baby bird and how to handle such situations.
Leaving Baby Birds Alone:
The general rule is to leave baby birds alone if you find them on the ground. Handling them can pose risks to both the bird and humans.
Baby birds may carry diseases that can affect humans, and physical contact should be avoided.
Concerns with Handling Birds:
Birds have different behaviors and capabilities; some may bite, others can stab, and some may create noise.
Birds, in most cases, do not carry diseases like rabies, which are a concern for mammals.
Myth About Abandonment:
Contrary to a common myth, touching a baby bird does not cause the mother to abandon it. If you find a baby bird on the ground, you can gently return it to the nest if it’s safe to do so.
Fledglings vs. Nestlings:
Nestlings are very young birds that are not ready to leave the nest. If you find them on the ground, try to return them to the nest if possible.
Fledglings are older, with feathers, and are learning to fly. They often spend time on the ground but are still under the care of their parents.
Injured or Sick Birds:
If you encounter a visibly injured or sick baby bird, contact a wildlife rehabber immediately for professional care.
Handling Baby Birds:
If it’s necessary to handle a baby bird, gently support its body and feet with care, avoiding crushing its body or wings.
Returning to the Nest:
Attempt to return a fallen nestling to its nest if it’s safe and reachable. A small basket or rock can create a makeshift nest if the original one is destroyed.
Encountering a baby bird on the ground can be a delicate situation. It’s essential to understand the difference between nestlings and fledglings and exercise caution when handling them. In most cases, the best approach is to leave them alone or return them to the nest if it’s safe to do so, while injured birds should be directed to wildlife rehabbers for proper care.
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