How to Rescue Baby Song Birds

(The following instructions are for adults only!
Children should not handle any wild animals because of possible exposure to disease and parasites.)

1. Prepare a container – Place a paper towel or tissues in the bottom of a plastic butter tub or similar type of container to make a ‘nest'. (Nestling baby birds must not be placed on hard, flat surfaces.) Place the ‘nest' in a box with holes.
   
   
2. Protect yourself – Wear gloves. Older baby birds may peck with their beaks to protect themselves. Birds can also carry disease and different types of parasites.
   
   
3. Gently place the bird into the prepared ‘nest' .
   
   
4. Warm the baby if it feels at all cold – (You may need to use your bare hand to determine his. Wash hands thoroughly afterwards.) The best way to do this is to place the nest about 12” below a 40 watt light bulb. (Make sure to check that the baby isn't getting over heated.) If heating isn't needed, or if baby is a fledge that can get out of nest… close up the box (with air holes).
   
   
5. Note exactly where you found the bird – This is very important for possible release.
   
   
6. Keep the bird in a warm & quiet place .
   
   
7. Do not give food or water – It is very easy to get food or water into the windpipe. Also, if an animal is very dehydrated or cold, it cannot digest food properly.
   
   
8. Do not handle the bird any more than necessary – We are predators and it is very stressful. specially don't allow children or pets near the baby.
   
   
9. Contact Nature's Nursery or another rehabilitation center – Don't keep the bird any longer than necessary. 419-877-0060

   Keep in mind: It is against federal law to keep most wild birds if you don't have permits, even if you plan to release them.