Birdhouse & Birding Tips

The Nesting Season is in full swing and for the birds in your backyard using your decorative birdhouses or nesting boxes you should continue to monitor your boxes. See my post "5 Things to Do when monitoring your Nesting Houses".
Yet you might find the occasion when you find a bird on the ground that is not from your birdhouses or nesting boxes.

First determine if there is a Wildlife Rehabilitator in your area. Follow this link to find one.
If you do call them and describe the situation. They will be able to determine if it is likely bringing the bird to them is advisable or if the bird should be left where they are. If they advise you to bring the bird to them, then: Place the baby in a softly-lined covered box with ventilation Place the box in a warm, dark quiet indoor location away from all humans and pets Do Not attempt to give it food or water, no matter how much it begs! More detailed information here
If you don't have a Wildlife Rehabilitator in your area, it is strongly recommended to do nothing. If the bird was severely injured, in all likelihood it will die regardless of intervention. When humans try to capture a wild animal or keep it in captivity, the stress can lead to its death. (It's pretty easy to kill a bird with kindness). Witnessing injured or dying birds is difficult, especially when we don't see it that often, but letting nature run its course is nearly always the right thing to do, harsh as that may sound.
Also stay away from birds infested with flies or maggots, cat or dog caught, very cold or weak, or having convulsions. If you want you can call the Wildlife Rehabilitator and get advice in this situation but is not highly recommended.

2)A baby bird that is naked or has minimal feather development is a hatchling.

These birds are usually less than 5 days old, quickly lose body temperature and require feedings every 10-15 minutes. They require specialized care and should be immediately taken to a wildlife rehabilitator.