During the summer it is common to see baby birds (fledgings) and other wildlife as they begin their venture out into the big world. Often times it is even possible to see an injured young bird and our human nature desires very much to want to help the young fledging. In most cases it is best to leave the young bird where it is. When we interfere with nature, we are more likely to seal the young bird’s fate.

Are there signs of nearby predators, specifically cats? If not, then it may be best to leave the young bird, at least initially where you found it. Did the young bird fall out of its nearby nest? If so, then it might be appropriate to place the young bird back in its nest.

Where practical, monitor the injured young bird to see how it is doing and whether or not it appears that it may make it on its own, or perhaps its mother is nearby feeding and caring for the bird when you are not looking.

If it appears that the bird may not make it on its own, then it may be best to take it to a licensed rehabilitator. One source to find a rehabilitator is found through the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association.

Additional useful information can also be found through the Wildlife Orphanage.

Remember two things. 1. A baby’s best chance for survival is its mother. 2. It’s against the law in most states to keep wild animals if you don’t have permits, even if you plan to release them.

It is human nature to want to try to help an injured bird, unfortunately the fact of life is that most young birds don’t make it through there first year --- that’s nature.