Baby bird alert
THE RSPB is urging bird lovers to resist the urge to ‘help’ fledgings that appear to have left their nest too early. The wildlife charity says that fledglings should be left alone and it is normal for them to be flightless at first.
RSPB wildlife advisor Mey Duek said: “Every year we are inundated with calls from people worried about an abandoned chick in their garden, desperately calling for its mum.
“It’s extremely unlikely they have been deserted and in many cases there is a parent nearby keeping a beady eye on their chick’s progress or collecting food.
Fledglings are pretty tough
“Although it’s natural to want to protect fluffy and fragile creatures, the most helpful thing you can do is keep your distance.
“Fledglings may appear dainty but they are tougher than they look and typically spend a day or two on the ground before they are ready to spread their wings and take flight for the first time.”
Fledglings are young birds that have all or most of their feathers and leave the nest just before they can fly. In comparison, nestlings are baby birds that have little or no feathers, and will not survive long outside the nest.
If there is a fledgling in your garden and you have a pet cat or dog, try to keep them indoors until the bird has flown.
The only time you should try to help a fallen youngster is if it is in or near a busy road or pavement, or if it is injured, when you should call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999. Sometimes local vets treat wild birds for free, but check with them first.