Caymanian Compass, April 2002

By Lois Blumenthal

Local veterinarians report that many people who find a baby bird on the ground pick it up and bring it to their offices. This is unnecessary and not helpful!  As fledglings begin to fly, they often end up on the ground during the learning stages. The parents are always nearby and will feed the fledgling on the ground and continue the flying lessons. If you find a flightless baby bird, look carefully in the area for the nest and replace it there if possible. If you can’t find or can’t reach the nest, secure your pets (They should be secure anyway!) and observe the situation. Most likely you will see the parent birds coming to feed their baby. Wild animals should be left in the wild whenever possible. If you do find a bird or other wild animal that is clearly in need of help, note the exact location where you found it and bring the animal quickly to Dr. Brenda Bush or any of the veterinary clinics for care. All the veterinarians have cell phone numbers available through their office answering machines, and are always available for emergencies.

Young Banana Quit in rehab

Rail in rehab

REMEMBER:

Baby birds of any species that are learning to fly should be LEFT IN THE WILD! Just because you find a young bird on the ground doesn’t mean it is injured. The mother birds are the best possible caretakers for these fledgling flyers. Please don’t pick them up unless there is actually an injury. Always note the exact location where a bird if found so that it can be returned as soon as possible. This is especially important for young birds that still need their parents for instructions.