With spring and summer upon us, you may see a small feathered bird hopping around your yard. Leave it alone, because the parents are nearby watching the young fledgling. Once these fledglings leave the nest, the parents continue to feed them on the ground until they are able to fly.
If you feel the bird is in immediate danger, you can pick it up and place it under a nearby shrub. If you find a small unfeathered bird on the ground, look for its nest and if possible, put it back. If the nest is destroyed and you see the parents around, place the bird in a small wicker-type basket or plastic butter tub with holes in the bottom, lined with tissue and secure the dish in a tree near where you found the bird. The parents will continue to feed the baby.
If you feel the bird you found is truly orphaned or injured, then place it in a quiet safe place until you hear from a volunteer. Do not attempt to feed or give it water.
If you are sure that the bird is orphaned or injured, you may take it to A&B Animal Clinic at 9027 Garland Road, (214) 328-7055. The veterinarians there will care for it and a rehabber will pick it up. There is no charge to you for this service.
