Rescuing nestlings

Wildlife shelters can overflow with nestlings during spring but maybe there are other options to try for fluffy little tackers that are spotted beneath a tree.

Australian Magpie (Cracticus tibicen)

A long time ago I was a wildlife carer for a couple of years; it was exhausting, heart-breaking and incredibly rewarding. I mainly worked with birds and especially enjoyed raising magpies.

Firstly, I want to thank all the awesome wildlife carers out there and all the members of the public who follow through when they see a critter that needs help. Secondly, I want to list some things to try if you find a native baby bird.

Nestlings

• nestlings are likely to have skin showing and are best helped if they can be safely returned to their nest
• alternatively a replacement nest can be made from a small tub or box with drainage holes poked in it and lined with dry grasses and safely placed in the tree
• in either case watch from a distance to confirm that the parents are visiting the nest
• it’s a wonderful feeling when it works, which in my experience it usually does

Fledglings

• fledglings are older babies that are fully feathered and have left the nest but are still being fed by their parents
• it is normal for them to be sitting on the ground, hopping around and possibly flying short distances
• if they are in danger from people, animals or traffic it’s good to put them into bushes or onto a branch
• unless they are injured or in danger it’s good to watch them for a while to confirm that their parents are feeding them

Injured, not being fed, cold or in danger

• if the bird is injured, abandoned, cold or in danger they will need more care
• gently place them into a lidded box with small air holes, on dried grasses, a small towel or similar
• handle the bird as little as possible and keep it in a dark, warm, quiet place while you organise expert help
• call a vet or wildlife shelter

Important reminders

• always ensure your own safety
• parent birds don’t reject babies that have been handled by humans
• do not offer food or water as it can be inappropriate or dangerous for the bird

Australian Magpie (Cracticus tibicen)
1/1600, f/6.3, ISO 1600

Hopefully the baby magpie grew to be a fine adult specimen, like the one above that was recently foraging in my garden to feed its nestlings.

It is widely believed that birds cannot smell but ongoing studies are showing that this isn’t necessarily true, I found this article particularly interesting: Audubon – birds can smell

Some wildlife care links are listed on my links page, if you have local links you’d like added please let me know. If you have any further suggestions or experiences about bird rescue, please add them in the comments.

Happy birding

Kim