Songbirds

This large group of birds includes most of our backyard neighbors which are comprised of very small (hummingbirds), larger-than-average (crows) and every size in between (robins, cardinals, wrens, etc.).

DO RESCUE:

• Any that were attacked by another animal, especially a cat.
• Any that were hit by a car or moving equipment.
• Any that have flies or ants swarming.
• Injured nestlings that have fallen from their nest.
• Fledglings that do not move away when approached.
• Any that have flown into your window/glass door – place the bird in a shoebox or pet carrier and leave it alone in a quiet dark room for an hour, then try to release the bird outside. If it is unable to fly away successfully, it will need a wildlife rehabilitator.

DO NOT RESCUE:

• Healthy Fledglings – most of our native songbirds leave the nest before they are fully flighted, learning to fly from the ground while still being tended to by their parents.
• Re-nestable Nestlings – if a songbird has fallen and seems uninjured (no blood or bruising), try to put the baby back in its nest if it is safely reached. If it jumps out, it is a fledgling and should be left alone (see above).

IF IT NEEDS REHABILITATION:

• DO NOT force feed any injured bird. Unskilled hands can force food/water into the lungs and excess handling can cause shock and exacerbate the bird’s injuries.
• DO NOT feed any baby bird, even if it is begging. Unskilled hands can force food/water into the lungs and an improper diet can be fatal.

See Transporting Wildlife. Keep it warm and quiet.