It's baby season here in Kentucky,
and while this is exciting news, it is possible that some baby
birds will be found in unfortunate circumstances.
In the event that you should find a
baby bird, it is important to know what you should and shouldn't do.
WHAT DO I DO IF I FIND A BABY BIRD?
BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING FACTS
-
Under
The Federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and State law it is
ILLEGAL for any person to injure or possess an indigenous
bird. Introduced species such as English Sparrow. European
Starlings or the Common Rock Dove are excluded.
-
Raptor
Rehabilitation of Kentucky, Inc is licensed to rehabilitate
injured birds, by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and
the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources,
-
An
injured bird requires IMMEDIATE specialized care. Any delay
reduces the bird's chance for recovery.
-
Most
veterinarians do not have the time, special facilities, or
the practical experience to handle injured birds.
-
When
birds leave the nest for the first time. They often do not
have full flight capability, and spend two or three days on
or near the ground.
-
Be a
responsible pet owner and consider keeping your pet indoors
during the sensitive nesting and fledging time.
If the bird is NOT injured:
-
Be
certain the area is free of any animal that can cause harm.
Especially keep cats and dogs away from the nest site.
-
If you
find a bird on the ground, carefully return it to the nest.
IT is a myth that the parents won't care for a baby once it
has been touched by humans.
-
If the
original nest is unsafe or destroyed, place the bird in a
small basket. Nail the basket to the tree near the nest
site, out of the direct sunlight. If you cant find a
basket, use a margarine dish, but be sure to punch drainage
holes in the bottom to prevent drowning.
-
It is a
good idea to keep an eye on the baby bird from a discreet
distance. If the parents do not return in an hour, call
your local DNR or wildlife rehabilitation center for help.
If the bird IS injured:
1. Prepare a small cardboard box by punching
ventilation holes in the sides and the top.
2.
Gently, place the bird on the towel and the
box in a warm, dry, quiet area.
3.
DO NOT GIVE THE BIRD ANY FOOD OR WATER!
4.
Call your nearest DNR office or wildlife
rehabilitation center.
Wildlife rehabilitation centers are volunteer based. We
appreciate your help with the transportation of
injured
birds to our facilities. If you are unable to transport, we
will make arrangements.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP!
Raptor Rehabilitation of KY,
INC
(502) 491-1939
www.raptorrehab.org
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