This morning I rescued a fledgling that had fallen into the pool. At first I thought it was fine except for being (understandably!) freaked out. But upon closer inspection I discovered that it had a deep gash in its breast (down to the 'pink') that may mean a cat had gotten hold of it. In any event I saved it from drowning, sat in the sun with it until it was all dried off, and then set it in the grass under one of the cottonwoods, where hopefully Mama/Papa would be able to deal with it.
AUDUBON: What To Do If You Find A Baby Bird
The following is a quick guide to help you make the right decision when a baby bird is found.
Many species of birds such as robins, scrub jays, crows and owls leave the nest and spend as many as 2-5 days on the ground before they can fly. This is a normal and vital part of the young birds' development. While they are on the ground, the birds are cared for and protected by their parents and are taught vital life skills (finding food, identifying predators, flying).
Taking these birds into captivity denies them the opportunity to learn skills they will need to survive in the wild. Unless a bird is injured, it is essential to leave them outside to learn from their parents.
Fledglings are typically fully feathered, with a short tail and wings. They are able to walk, hop and flap, and they may attempt short flights, but are still being cared for by the parents.
If you find a fledgling, it should be left alone or at the most placed in a nearby shrub. Keep people and pets away so the parents will continue to care for it until it can fly.
When I just now checked it was still in the vicinity, but hopping/fluttering around like any other fledgling, so maybe it will be okay.
This front porch pic is for Tracy. See the pig planter? That's the one I mentioned yesterday which I found in the same store in Cottonwood where I scored your little tin.
I've been doing some housecleaning and laundry, and shortly will head up to the library for drop off/pick up, then swing by Patti's. She's done with school (as of yesterday) so I want to see her happy dance!
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