You spot a tiny bird on the ground, feathers fluffed, eyes bright, and your heart says scoop first, think later. Pause for a beat. Most “rescues” are actually kidnappings from attentive parents doing their job nearby. The right move depends on the bird’s age and condition, and a few calm checks can make all the difference.
The guidance below is general information, not medical or legal advice. In Canada, handling or keeping most wild birds is restricted under federal and provincial laws. If in doubt, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or your provincial conservation office.
First question: Nestling Or Fledgling
Nestling: Bare skin or patchy down, can’t hop, can’t grip your finger. Belongs back in the nest.
Fledgling: Nearly feathered with a short tail, can hop and grip, still learning to fly. Belongs outside under parental care.
If It’s A Nestling, Try A Quick Return
Look for the original nest above where you found the bird. If you can safely reach it, place the chick back and leave the area. Parents do not abandon young because of human scent. If the nest is destroyed, craft a shallow, drainable substitute from a small basket or plastic container with holes, line it with dry grass or tissue, secure it near the original site, and step away so the parents can resume care.
If It’s A Fledgling, Give Space Not help
Fledglings spend a few days on the ground while flight muscles strengthen. Parents continue feeding them, often every few minutes, even if people are watching from a distance. If the spot is risky, gently move the fledgling a few meters to a nearby shrub or low branch and keep pets indoors.
Quick Safety Checks You Can Do In seconds
– Clear a small buffer from ants or other hazards.
– If weather turns cold and wet, provide brief shelter under a leafy branch or porch edge, then back off so parents can find the bird.
– Keep the area quiet; lingering crowds can interrupt feedings.
What Not To Do
Do not feed the chick. Water, milk, bread, seeds, or worms can choke or injure it. Do not try to keep a wild bird at home, even for a night, unless a rehabilitator instructs you to do so. Do not place a fledgling back in the nest; it left on purpose.
When To Call A Rehabilitator
Call if the bird is bleeding, has a wing or leg at an odd angle, has been in a cat’s mouth, is cold and unresponsive, or if you watched for an hour without a single parental visit. In cities, local humane societies often maintain wildlife rescue lists; rural residents can contact provincial conservation officers for the nearest licensed care.
A Note About Cats And Windows
The leading avoidable threats near homes are free roaming cats and window strikes. Keep cats indoors while a fledgling is in the yard and use simple window markers or screens to cut reflections during the spring and summer fledging period.
If You Must Hold A Bird Briefly
Warmth matters more than food. Place the bird in a small ventilated box lined with tissue, keep it quiet and dark, and avoid handling. Transfer it promptly to the nest you rebuilt or to a licensed rehabilitator as directed.
Common Myths To Ignore
“Touching a chick makes parents abandon it.” False. Most birds have little sense of smell and respond to sight and sound of their young.
“A grounded chick is always in trouble.” Often false. Fledglings practice flight on the ground while parents guard and feed nearby.
