Introduction
Sometimes wild birds can become injured or orphaned and when we as humans find these little creatures so helpless we find ourselves at a loss as to what to do to save them from further harm or death. How do take care of a wild bird?
Housing for the Wild Bird
One of the first things you need to do is be able to get the little bird to shelter of some sort. If you have an empty cardboard box that isn’t way too big then that’s what you need to start with. If you can, find some dried grass to put into the box to make it a little nest of sorts. Never use shredded paper because the bird may decide to chew on it and it could be a choking hazard for the wild bird.
If you happen to have a cage on hand that is even better, if not, maybe you can borrow one from a friend. If not, a box will be sufficient as long as you put the proper items in it to help keep your little birdie friend warm.
Other Necessities and Handling
You have to find a way to keep the bird warm. The best way I know of is to fill a bottle with warm water and wrap some soft cloth around it to keep the bird from getting right against it and possibly getting burned. This will help generate some heat in the temporary house you have made for the wild bird.
In case you didn’t know it, if it’s a baby bird, you are going to have your hands full trying to feed that little one. Baby birds want to eat every few minutes, anywhere from every 15 to 20 minutes to be exact. You will have to find something to feed it, and something to feed it with. One suggestion I have found is to use an eyedropper and you can feed the bird some canned dog food, cat food or baby food works too. Don’t be forceful when trying to feed the bird as it could cause choking.
Don’t try to pry his beak open because you will most likely get bitten. If the bird doesn’t seem hungry at the time you feel is normal for feeding, give it time and try again in about 20 or 30 minutes.
Birds do sleep like any other creature. They sometimes will curl up or “nest” so to speak. When you see this happening, don’t automatically assume the bird has died. They will need to rest just like anyone else does.
Always make sure you wash your hands thoroughly between feedings or any other activities in caring for the wild bird. While holding the bird you must have a firm grip, but yet, be very gentle. Don’t squeeze the bird as it would obviously cause injury or death.
Keep pets and small children away from the bird. The last thing you want is for further injury to occur to this already devastated little one. As everyone knows, cats are notorious for their love of killing birds. Don’t let this happen as you have taken time and effort to rescue the little one so protect it as if it were your own little pet.
Once the wild bird is showing signs of recovery and is active enough to fly, you must then say goodbye and let it go back to the wild where it belongs. Remember, this is a wild bird in captivity just long enough for you to care for it, and then it deserves to go back with his friends where he wants and needs to be.
Tips and Comments
Keep the wild bird warm, safe, and fed.
Don't let small children handle the bird.
Keep pets away from the bird.
Don't put harmful objects in the birds housing area.
Do not try to force feed the bird.
