There you are, minding your business walking down the sidewalk, when you spot a small bird, just standing there looking uncertain.
As you get closer, you realize it's struggling to stay upright. Mom doesn't appear to be around, and the bird looks helpless.
Sadly, the bird has likely made a recent, forced exit from the nest and is in a bewildered state. It is known as a fledgling, and there are ways to help maximize its chances for survival. This is the time of year when fledglings are most visible.
The Wildlife Rescue Association says it is important to know as much as you can before acting.
If you think you have found an injured bird, stop, observe, and ask yourself the following questions:
- Is the bird obviously injured? Can you see exposed bone or blood? (*)
- Is the bird on the ground?
- Is the bird fully feathered?
- Is it naked? (*)
- Is the bird able to walk or run?
- Is the bird vocalizing?
- Is the bird gaping? (opening mouth for food)
- *Do you see predators or have you witnessed a predator attack? (*)
- *Is it covered in bugs or insects? (*)
- *Does the bird look sleepy? (*)
If you have answered yes to any of the above questions indicated by a star (*) human intervention is required.
The association says to observe what you see before trying to capture the bird.
"Call 604-526-7275 (Wildlife Rescue’s Helpline) to leave a message with the details of your observation and your contact information," they say on their website.
Take a photo of the scenario and email to [email protected].
If capture is necessary, keep in a warm, dark place away from human voices and other pets or noises until a helpline volunteer can call you back.
Here are the don'ts:
- Do not hold in your bare hands
- Do not keep for longer than 24hours
- Do not try to care for or fix injuries on your own
- Do not give food or water without professional advice from a licensed wildlife rehabilitator
— John K. White, Castanet
