04/13/2023
Due to the volume of fledgling songbird calls we're receiving, it's time for a nesting season PSA:
We know it's tempting to "rescue" fledglings. They look so helpless, and they are, but nine times out of ten their parents are nearby, waiting for you to go away so they can continue caring for their babies.
If a fledgling is in the street, herd it into a safer location. If you're concerned about your cat or dog getting it, control your pets; they're the problem, not the fledgling that's just doing what fledglings do: learning how to operate in it's new environment.
They'll spend anywhere from a few hours to a few days on the ground until they learn the basics of flight. The best thing you can do is provide them with a safe space to learn during this critical developmental period.
If you encounter a fledgling that is obviously wounded, find a local wildlife rehabilitator using Animal Help Now (https://ahnow.org/ #/). They'll provide instruction on how best to handle your particular situation. Otherwise, if you care, leave them there!
Credit to For The Birds of Acadiana for the graphic.