Frequently asked questions
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What to do if you find a young bird
As a general rule – it is best to leave baby birds alone. If you find a young bird out of its nest, it is probably a fledgling. Young garden birds usually leave the nest about two weeks after hatching - just before they can fly. They will have grown all or most of their feathers, and be able to walk, run and hop on to low branches.
If you have picked up a baby bird, put it back near to the place you found it. Don't try to return a fledgling to its nest as you may disturb other young birds. If you are concerned about its safety try to put it nearby on a ledge, or somewhere it will be out of the reach of cats.
Leave the site for at least an hour and only return if you are still worried about the bird. – You will almost certainly find that the parents have taken care of their youngster.
Fledglings are fed by their parents. They are not usually far away and are probably collecting food – but will not return until you have gone. Despite the risks, a baby bird has a greater chance of survival in the wild than it has being hand-reared by humans. Human interference can reduce a young animal's chance of survival.
If you think a bird is genuinely orphaned or is clearly sick put it in a warm, dark box and seek assistance from your nearest veterinary surgeon during normal surgery opening hours.
If necessary, offer a shallow dish of water (make sure it is shallow, to reduce the risk of drowning). Do not offer the bird milk or food.
If you need further help and advice, please call the RSPCA's 24-hour cruelty and advice line 0300 1234 999.
Caution:- Handling of any animal either domestic, wild, dead or alive may be potentially hazardous. Obvious dangers include bites, scratches and general hygiene issues. Common sense should be applied in all instances and if unsure seek additional advice or assistance. Personal hygiene should be taken into consideration after handling any animal whether it is domestic, wild, dead or alive.
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