t’s spring, and you’re wandering through your garden when you spot a tiny, fluffy bird on the ground. It’s cute, but also looks a bit helpless. What’s the protocol here – scoop it up or leave it alone?
Fledgling or Nestling?
First, figure out what kind of baby bird you’re dealing with. If it’s a fledgling (it has feathers and is hopping around), it’s probably just learning to fly. Mum and Dad are likely nearby, supervising from a distance, so unless it’s in immediate danger (like on a busy path or near a predator), you should leave it be.
If it’s a nestling (a tiny, bald, or barely-feathered baby), then it’s too young to be out of the nest. If you can find the nest nearby, gently place the bird back inside. Don’t worry about the old myth of “human scent” making the parents abandon the chick – that’s nonsense. Birds aren’t that picky.
If You Can’t Find the Nest…
If there’s no nest in sight, or if it’s too high to reach, place the bird in a small, secure spot like a box lined with tissue. Then, contact a local wildlife centre or the RSPCA for advice. Don’t attempt to raise the bird yourself – that’s a job for the experts.