What to Do If You Find a Baby Bird?

Spring and summer are the primary nesting seasons for most birds, which means you may occasionally spot young chicks outside the nest and seemingly alone.

Knowing what to do when you find a baby bird can help you ensure its safety and increase its chances of survival.

If you come across a young bird alone on the ground or far from its nest, the first step is to determine if it truly requires help.

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Many young songbirds leave the nest 2 to 5 days before they can fly, yet their parents still care for them, providing food and keeping them safe.

A chick at this stage will usually have almost fully formed feathers, though its wings and tail may be short, and it might only be able to flutter short distances.

With these characteristics, chicks generally need minimal intervention from well-meaning bird watchers.

Steps to Take When You Find a Baby Bird

If you do encounter a baby bird that appears to need help, follow these steps to give it the best possible care:

Observe the Bird Before touching or disturbing the bird, observe it closely to see if it’s already receiving care from its parents. Often, the parents are nearby, ready to feed and protect their young, even if they’re temporarily out of sight. Give it at least 30 minutes or more, as bird parents may take time to return to the baby.
Intervene as Little as Possible For chicks that are slightly older, simply moving the bird to a safe, shaded spot is often the best way to help. Younger birds may require more assistance, but it’s best to limit human interference as much as possible.
Return the Bird to Its Nest The ideal place for a baby bird is its own nest. If it’s too young to leave, carefully return it. If you can’t locate the nest or it’s been destroyed, line a small basket (like a berry basket) with tissue paper or grass clippings and place it securely on a tree near the nest’s original location. Parents can still locate their chicks by sound, and contrary to popular belief, birds will not abandon their young just because they’ve been touched.
Keep the Bird Safe If the bird’s nest is damaged, or if it’s exposed to predators or unsafe conditions, or if the bird appears injured or ill, take immediate action. Gently place the bird in a small box lined with tissues or paper towels, cover it with a towel or newspaper, and keep it indoors in a quiet space until conditions improve or a wildlife rehabilitator can take over.

Tips for Giving Baby Birds the Best Chance of Survival

Tip #1: Minimize Stress on the Bird. Handle the bird as little as possible and avoid loud noises or sudden movements. Keep children and pets away from the area to reduce stress and encourage the parents to return.

Tip #2: Wear Gloves When Handling Birds. Even young birds can carry mites, lice, ticks, bacteria, and other parasites that may be harmful to humans. Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling a bird.

Tip #3: Avoid Giving Food or Water. Baby birds have specific dietary needs that are best met by their parents. Trying to feed them household food, bird seeds, or scraps can harm them. Instead, wait for the parents or contact a wildlife rehabilitator who can provide the necessary diet for their growth.

Helping Baby Birds Thrive Safely

By carefully following these steps, you’re offering baby birds the best chance to safely grow and thrive in their natural surroundings.

Your patience and minimal intervention can make a significant difference in their journey to adulthood, allowing them to develop and eventually take flight on their own.