Encountering a baby bird out of its nest can stir an instinctual need to help. However, well-meaning interventions can sometimes do more harm than good.

Here's a guide on how to effectively assist these fledglings or nestlings while ensuring they have the best chance at survival.

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Springtime often leads to baby birds venturing from their nests.

Nestlings or Fledglings: Identifying the Bird

First, determine if the bird is a fledgling or a nestling. Fledglings are older, with more developed feathers, and are often found on the ground during their learning phase of flying. In contrast, nestlings are younger, may have minimal or no feathers, and usually cannot survive outside the nest, CBS News reports.

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Not all baby birds found on the ground are in distress.

Steps for Nestlings

If you've found a nestling:

• Try to locate and return it to its original nest.
• If the nest is destroyed, create a makeshift one from a container with drainage holes, lining it with natural materials.
• Monitor from a distance to confirm parental visits. If parents don't return within a few hours, contact a wildlife rehabilitator.

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Fledglings may leave the nest before they can fly well.

Fledglings: Often Best Left Alone

Fledglings are generally best left undisturbed. They may appear vulnerable, but these birds are undergoing a critical learning phase, with parental supervision nearby, NYC Audubon reports. If the bird is in a dangerous location, it's acceptable to move it to a nearby safer spot.

Handling Injuries

If a bird is visibly injured, the situation calls for more immediate action:

• Place the bird in a covered container with air holes and a soft lining.
• Keep the bird in a quiet, dark place to reduce stress.
• Do not attempt to feed or water the bird.
• Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible for further instructions.

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Nestlings, if found, should be returned to their nests when possible.

Common Misconceptions

A widespread myth is that human touch will lead to parental rejection. This is not the case; birds have a limited sense of smell and are unlikely to abandon their young due to human scent, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

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Watching from a distance helps ensure parents return to their young.

Legal Considerations

It's essential to remember that in many areas, intervening with wildlife requires permits or licenses. While initial aid might be necessary, the long-term care of wildlife should be left to professionals to comply with local laws and ensure the best outcome for the animal.

When encountering a baby bird out of its nest, the best course of action often involves minimal intervention. By understanding the differences between fledglings and nestlings and knowing when and how to intervene, we can ensure these young birds have the best chance of thriving in their natural environment.