Fledglings may not always need to be rescued, as they are at a stage where they are developing their flight skills. However, there are certain situations where intervention may be necessary. If you come across a fledgling on the ground, it’s important to assess the situation before taking any action. While it may be tempting to intervene, interfering without valid reasons can sometimes do more harm than good.
Check out our Do’s & Don’ts of Fledglings to make sure you are not putting them in harm’s way!
DON’TS:
- Don’t assume it needs rescuing: Fledglings spend time on the ground as part of their natural development. It doesn’t mean they are in distress or need immediate intervention
- Avoid unnecessary handling: This can cause stress and potentially harm the fledgling. Remember, wild birds are delicate creatures
- Don’t attempt to raise it yourself: Fledglings require specific care, and attempting to raise them without proper knowledge and resources can be challenging and may not be in the best interest of the bird’s well-being.
- Avoid feeding inappropriate food: Resist the urge to feed the fledgling with human food, as it may not provide the necessary nutrition and could be harmful.
DO’s:
- Observe from a safe distance: Assess the situation by observing the fledgling from a distance without causing any additional stress. Take note of its behavior and surroundings.
- Determine if it is in danger: If the fledgling is in a dangerous area, such as a road or near predators, it’s important to intervene to ensure its safety. Move it to a nearby safe location, like a shrub or a tree branch.
- Watch for parental presence: Keep an eye out for the presence of the bird’s parents. They may be nearby, watching over their young one, even if they’re not immediately visible.
- Seek professional advice: If you have concerns about the fledgling’s well-being, reach out to a local wildlife rehabilitation center, animal rescue organisation or the ISPCA to seek guidance on how to proceed.
Remember, interfering with wildlife should be done only when necessary and with proper expertise. It’s always best to seek advice from professionals who have experience in handling and caring for wildlife.
