Caring For Fledgling Songbirds

Feathered , Some downy, Hopping, Attempts to fly


The appropriate means for caring and raising a wild songbird depends on the actual species so it is highly recommended that a wild bird rehabilitator be contacted as soon as possible to ensure the best possible chance of survival. If the FLEDGLING is not yet fully feathered, you may wish to first read "Caring For Nestling Songbirds".

If the baby bird is feathered and able to perch, the specific method of containment is extremely important. DO NOT place a wild bird in a small domestic bird cage. The bars on the bird cage can severely damage the feathers, making release impossible. A pet taxi or pet carrier will be adequate for temporary, short term housing, but is unsuitable for long term care, since it offers no room for flight. If a carrier is not available, a large cardboard box will work fine. Provide a few small branches or twigs to perch on and place the box in a quiet, stress free location away from family and pets. Handling should be kept to a minimum.

Due to their extremely high metabolism, fledglings must be fed at least once every hour from sun up to sundown. A well balanced species-specific diet is imperative to insure well being. NEVER administer liquid directly into a baby birds mouth. For added fluids, dip the food source into water, Pedialite or plain yogurt. The following food sources are general and may be fed temporarily to maintain basic nutritional requirements.

*SCIENCE DIET FELINE GROWTH: This small bite kitten food can be purchased at most pet stores in small quantity and should be soaked briefly in water to soften. It may then be fed using a blunt tip toothpick.

*LIVE MEALWORMS: Alternate the kitten food with mealworms (which may be fed using tweezers) to supplement protein levels. Mealworms can be purchased at some pet stores.

SUPPLEMENTAL FOODS: Fruits - grapes, apple, banana, berries. Protein - mashed boiled egg, lean raw beef.

Now that the baby is safe and well fed, it's time to begin the search for a qualified wild bird rehabilitator. Contact your local State Parks and Wildlife Department for a list of wild bird rehabilitators in your area. You may also try veterinarian clinics that treat domestic birds, a zoo or animal control for a list of qualified rehabbers.

Please remember that these are precious little lives that deserve the best possible chance of survival in the wild. It is a violation of State and Federal law to permanently possess a wild bird.