The belief that touching a baby bird will cause its parents to abandon it is a common concern. This often leads individuals to hesitate when encountering a young bird in distress. Understanding the biological realities of birds can clarify appropriate actions. This article explores the truth behind this concept and provides guidance for assisting young birds.
Dispelling the Myth of Abandonment
Birds generally do not abandon their offspring if touched by humans. Most bird species possess a poor sense of smell, making them unlikely to detect human scent on their young. While some birds, like turkey vultures, have a well-developed sense of smell, most rely on sight and sound to identify their chicks and nests.
Parental instinct to care for offspring is strong. Birds invest significant effort in raising their young, and this drive to ensure survival overrides minor disturbances like human contact. Research demonstrates that parent birds continue to care for their chicks even after human inspections.
Origins of the Common Misconception
The widespread myth that touching a baby bird leads to abandonment likely originated from adults seeking to prevent children from disturbing wildlife. This advice encouraged people to observe nature from a distance. It may also stem from a misunderstanding of bird behavior.
Birds might temporarily leave a nest if they perceive a threat, such as a human presence, but they typically return once the danger has passed. This temporary absence could be misinterpreted as abandonment. Some birds might also eject a sick or parasitic chick from the nest, which could be mistakenly attributed to human interference if previously handled.
Responsible Actions When Finding a Young Bird
When you encounter a young bird outside its nest, first determine if it is a nestling or a fledgling, as this dictates the appropriate action.
Nestlings
Nestlings are very young birds, often featherless or with only sparse down, with closed or barely open eyes, and are unable to perch or stand. If you find a nestling on the ground, it almost always needs help, as it cannot survive outside the nest.
If you can locate the nest in a nearby tree or bush, gently return the nestling to it. If the nest is destroyed or out of reach, you can create a substitute by securing a small container, like a basket with drainage holes and soft material, in a safe, elevated location close to where the bird was found. If the nestling feels cold, warm it gently in your hands before returning it. After returning a nestling, observe from a distance to ensure the parents return to care for it.
Fledglings
Fledglings are young birds that are mostly or fully feathered, can hop, flutter, and perch, having intentionally left the nest as part of their natural development. It is normal for them to be on the ground or in low branches while they learn to fly and forage. In most cases, fledglings should be left alone, as their parents are usually nearby, continuing to feed and supervise them. Only intervene if the fledgling is in immediate danger, such as in a road or if predators are present; you can carefully move it to a safer, sheltered spot nearby. If a bird, whether nestling or fledgling, is visibly injured, bleeding, or has been in a cat’s mouth, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator immediately.
Actual Dangers to Nestlings and Fledglings
Young birds face natural threats far more significant than human touch. Predators pose a danger to nestlings and fledglings. Common predators include domestic and feral cats, which are considered a leading cause of bird mortality in some regions, as well as snakes, raccoons, squirrels, crows, jays, owls, and hawks. These animals actively seek out nests and young birds as food sources.
Adverse weather conditions also present a threat. Extreme temperatures, both cold snaps and heat waves, can negatively impact young bird survival. Cold weather can reduce insect prey and make it difficult for young birds to maintain body temperature.
Hot and dry weather can lead to overheating and food scarcity. Accidental falls from nests due to strong winds or sibling rivalry can also displace young birds. These environmental and predatory pressures are the primary dangers young birds navigate.