Always remember, if a baby bird is injured, it needs to be taken to a wildlife care facility as soon as possible.

Only if the bird is NOT injured, would these rescue tips apply.....

Using nests in your rescue

From the bird development that you have done in this course, you will know know that fully feathered birds which are just starting to fly, no longer need a nest. This is the branchling or fledgling phase and finding a bird like this alone probably means it is waiting for it's parents to return with food. It would NOT need a nest, but you could consider moving it into a dense bush or tree to prevent predators from attacking it while it waits.

A bird which does not seem to have all it's feathers and still appears wobbly and not attempting to fly, is probably still a nestling. This means it does still need a nest.

• If you can locate it's original nest and it is usable or quickly repairable, then that is always the best option.
• Otherwise, making an artificial nest is a good option - JUST BEAR IN MIND - baby birds are very fragile and cannot wait a long time for a nest to be built.
• So either have nests built and ready to use, or make sure you construct the nest quickly.

Take look below for suggested materials to use.

Artificial Nesting Material suggestions

A variety of different organic materials can be used, including:

• Shredded coconut husk
• Animal fur or feathers
• Shredded paper
• Pieces of fabric
• Yarn, string or thread

Types of Nesting Material used in the wild

Different birds will use different materials to build their nests depending on the size of the nest, where it is constructed and how it will be used. Materials popular for building nests include:

• Twigs or sticks,Dead leaves,Grass clippings or dead grass
• Yarn, string or thread
• Human hair or animal fur
• Feathers,Cattail fluff
• Moss or lichen,Pine needles
• Mud, Pebbles or small rocks
• Spider web silk
• Straw or other plant stems
• Dental floss,Shredded paper,Broom bristles or mop string
• Cotton balls,Bits of trash or other unusual waste or litter

Many of these materials are available naturally in birds' environments.