Nestling
A nestling normally belongs in its nest. If the bird is warm, alert, and uninjured, return it to the original nest when you can do so safely. Human scent will not cause the parents to reject it.
Baby bird help
Pause before you rescue.
Many young birds found on the ground are healthy fledglings with attentive parents nearby. A few careful observations can keep a wild family together.
First, look closely
Feathers tell part of the story.
Observe from a distance before intervening. Do not give food or water, and do not try these steps with a raptor, heron, crane, loon, or any bird that could injure you—call REGI instead.
Fledgling
A fledgling often spends several days on the ground while its parents feed it and teach it to fly. Keep people and pets away and watch quietly from a distance unless the bird is injured or in immediate danger.
Needs help now
Call REGI if you see bleeding, a drooping wing, weakness, flies or insects, contact with a cat or dog, a confirmed dead parent, or danger that cannot be removed. Cat contact is an emergency even when wounds are hard to see.
Keep cats and dogs away
Move pets indoors and give the parents room to return. If a cat has touched the bird, call REGI immediately; bacteria can cause a fatal infection even without an obvious puncture wound.
Still uncertain?
Call before moving the bird.
Be ready to describe the bird, its condition, the exact location, and what you have observed. A photo can help REGI staff determine the safest next step.