Baby birds attempt first Spring flights; when and how to help your back yard birds

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – This time of year is baby bird season. Just like your toddlers learning to walk, baby birds are attempting their first flights. 

Raptor Rehabilitation of Kentucky says if you’re out in your yard and you see a baby bird on the ground, help place it back in its nest.

Contrary to popular belief, touching baby birds does not dissuade Momma Bird from returning, according to the organization.

On the other hand, apply the same situation to a bird that’s traded in its white baby fluff for adult feathers, Raptor Rehabilitation says leave it be. It’s most likely learning to fly. 

Look around for Mom or Dad; if they’ve got a close eye on Baby, the bird is most likely good to go.

Director of Raptor Rehabilitation of Kentucky David Dicks said, “It is a very human instinct to want to help an animal that you see on the ground you they don’t normally see. So, really try to figure out, ‘Is the bird actually in distress, or am I just trying to help it because it’s something I really want to do?’”

Finally, Raptor Rehabilitation says backyard cat attacks are a big problem for baby birds come Springtime. If you’re outside with your pets this season, keep an eye out for bird nests before letting your four-legged friends run free.