When Does a Bird Need Rescuing?
A good rule of thumb is that if there is any sign of external injury, or if the animal is in immediate danger from cats, dogs, etc. then it is time to step in.
For most birds, when to rescue and when to leave them alone, is harder to gauge. In nature, most young birds leave the nest a week or two before they are capable of any sustained and co-ordinated flight. Therefore, they often are found on the ground, in the bush, or on tree limbs, and because of their obvious young age, they are rescued by well-intentioned people. However, this is a normal stage in their development, and they should be left alone.
A NESTLING is a very young bird, often entirely featherless or nearly so, who cannot grasp your fingers and balance as you place him on them. A nestling that is found outside of its nest should always be rescued, as it will quickly perish on its own, and the parents are not likely to go back to it.
A FLEDGLING, though, is another matter. He will often still have the tell-tale orange corners on his beak, may have down and only a few feathers, and will only hop around when disturbed. If he can sit and grasp your fingers, he should be left alone. His parents are probably waiting for you to leave, before they return to give him a morsel of food, before leaving again to let him try his own luck at catching some dinner--a normal part of his maturing and growing up.
Therefore, if a young bird seems uninjured, just not able to fly but can perch on your finger or a tree branch, place it back where you found it. Stand off a short distance, and watch for a while, and you will probably see the parents return. The only time you should move a fledgling is if he is in immediate danger from cats, dogs, cars, etc or if he shows definite injuries.
This Bird Needs Help. Now What?
The first thing to be aware of is that an injured bird is frightened, and especially if it's a large bird of prey, may injure you if you aren't prepared. Protect your hands with gloves and try to throw a blanket or towel gently over the body and head of the bird. This can often calm them, and make rescue easier. If you have a cardboard box, gently transfer the bird into it. Remember that if you can keep the bird in darkness, it will stay much calmer. If you have any problems, remember that we are here to help. Please give us a call and we will do all we can.
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