13/11/2024
Birdcare Aoteroa have compiled some great information on fledglings, including common signs of distress, how to care for them after hours, how to check for parents, what to do in the event of cat interaction, and when to leave the bird alone.
Many birds go through a totally normal but nonetheless awkward stage when they fledge. They leave the nest before they are able to fly properly, and can be found hopping around on the ground. Parent birds will come by with food, but will likely not be around all the time. As long as the bird is uninjured and the parents are still around, please do not kidnap these babies! The best place for them to be is with their family.
You can help these birds by keeping cats at home or under supervision. This is a vulnerable time as they are taking their first steps into the big wide world, and can be quite oblivious to danger. If any cat interaction occurs, the bird needs to be taken to a rehabilitator as soon as possible to start antibiotic treatment.
