How to help baby birds that have fallen from their nest

SALT LAKE CITY — As spring arrives across the northern hemisphere, animals emerge from hibernation and migratory birds begin to return. 

As part of the birds’ return, nests are built and eggs are laid, a new generation of winged creatures to spread their songs across the state.

Occasionally, as people begin to emerge from their homes for outdoor activities, they may come across newly hatched baby birds lying on the ground near a tree trunk or other common nesting place. 

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources said the sight of a fallen baby bird is not unusual, as many birds are just hatching and may have fallen from their nests. Other times, strong wings may blow them from their homes.

“Baby birds usually chirp and call from the nest, waiting for their parents to bring food to them — and sometimes they get excited or agitated, which results in them falling from their perch,” Utah Division of Wildlife Resources Migratory Game Bird Coordinator Jason Jones said.

In Utah, the most common baby birds found on the ground are robins (which nest in trees) and swallows (which build mud nests in eaves and on the sides of houses).

Should a person find a baby bird on the ground, DWR has several important facts to consider.

Put baby birds back in the nest if they do not have feathers

A common misconception is that humans should never touch baby birds, as the human scent may encourage the baby bird’s parents to abandon it.

However, DWR explained that most birds do not have a good sense of smell. The baby bird’s parents likely won’t know that a person handled it. 

If the baby bird’s nest is nowhere to be found, place the infant on a branch safely out of the reach of dogs and cats.

“The baby will squawk, and its parents will find it,” Jones said. 

DWR warned that baby birds should never be taken home, as most birds in Utah are protected by state and federal laws.

Leave baby birds alone if they do have feathers

Young birds that can hop around and have their feathers are called “fledglings.” These birds can be left alone if they aren’t in danger, as they are typically very close to taking their first flight.

The “hopping” stage lasts between two and five days, with the bird’s parents closely watching their exploring child.

If a fledgling appears to be in danger, a person can move it to a safer spot. However, if the bird can’t be caught, it’s best to leave it alone.

Don’t feed baby birds

If a person spots a baby bird, DWR said to never attempt to feed it. 

“While robins and some bird species can safely eat worms, others can’t,” Jones said. “So don’t try to feed baby birds or other wildlife that you encounter. You may think you are ‘helping’ them, but it usually does more harm than good.” 

Don’t bother or move bird nests that have eggs or baby birds in them

Utah law prohibits people from disturbing or removing bird nests that have eggs or baby birds.

Individuals can take measures to prevent birds from building their nests in specific locations, but once a nest is in active use, they must wait until after baby birds have left the nest before moving it.

What to do with baby ducks

Baby ducks should be left alone, even if it appears that they are separated from their parents. 

However, if a baby duck is trapped in a storm drain or swimming pool, individuals are encouraged to contact the nearest DWR office or local officials for help.

Avian flu

Songbirds are not typically affected by highly pathogenic avian influenza, as they are not commonly found around birds that are already infected.

People who have bird feeders or birdbaths should clean them regularly to prevent avian flu from spreading. Those who also have backyard chickens, domestic ducks or wild waterfowl on their property are encouraged to remove bird feeders to prevent cross contamination.

If a group of five or more dead birds is spotted, contact the local DWR office and avoid touching the birds.

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Read more: What to do if you find a baby bird out of the nest