Ruffled Feathers Parrot Sanctuary Inc.
Where Hope Takes Flight
When you find an orphaned baby bird, knowing how to help can mean the difference between life and death. Whether it’s a fallen nestling or a vulnerable fledgling, this guide�backed by over 20,000 rescues�shows you how to help orphaned baby birds with safety, compassion, and confidence.c
First and foremost, not every baby bird needs rescuing. In fact, many fledglings are still being cared for by parents nearby.
- On the ground in danger (cats, roads, foot traffic)
- Additionally,�injured, bleeding, or cold
- Furthermore,�unresponsive or eyes closed
- Most importantly,�alone for over 2 hours with no parent in sight
- Finally,�crying nonstop or nest destroyed
Before taking action, it’s essential to identify what type of baby bird you’ve found:
| Feature | Nestling | Fledgling |
| Eyes | Closed or barely open | Fully open |
| Feathers | Sparse or missing | Mostly feathered |
| Movement | Can�t hop or perch | Can hop and grip perch |
?? The 2-Hour Rule
If it’s a fledgling, observe from a distance for 2 hours. However, if no parents return and the bird is at risk, then intervene.
Once you’ve determined intervention is necessary, incorrect handling can harm the bird. Therefore, use calm, gentle techniques to reduce stress and prevent injury.
- First,�wash hands or wear gloves
- Next,�cup bird gently with both hands
- Meanwhile,�avoid loud sounds or fast movements
- Most importantly,�keep bird warm (ideal: 85�95�F for nestlings)ird warm (ideal: 85�95�F for nestlings)
? If the Bird Is Injured:
- In this case,�use a towel to secure larger or more active birds
- However,�do not attempt to fix broken wings or legs
- Instead,�keep in a warm, dark, quiet space for transport
Remember, your first priority is warmth and quiet�not food. Additionally, avoid the temptation to feed immediately.
- Start with�a small cardboard box with air holes
- Then,�line with soft cloth (not terry cloth)
- Next,�use a warm rice sock or heating pad on low
- Crucially,�do not feed or offer water yet
- During transport,�keep box level and secure
- Most importantly,�do not handle the bird during transport
?? Feeding incorrectly can kill a baby bird. Only feed if a rehabilitator can�t be reached!
- Bread, milk, seeds (for nestlings), or direct water
- First choice:�Use an insect-based mix like Kaytee Exact Hand Feeding Formula
- When preparing,�feed warm, smooth mixture with proper syringe (Miracle Brand with O-rings)
- During feeding,�approach beak from the side, allow bird to swallow naturally
- As a last resort�for short periods like overnight, you can soak parrot pellets or dried cat food in water and feed mushy pieces with tweezers (only if begging though)
FRemember, formula provides hydration�therefore, never use droppers or force water.
- Hatchlings: Every 15�20 minutes
- Nestlings: Every 30�45 minutes
- Fledglings: Every 1�2 hours
Hydration is built into formula�no separate water needed.
Don�t delay contacting help. Call if you notice:
? Urgent Signs:
- Bleeding or visible injury
- Bird won�t eat or respond
- Crop not emptying, poor weight gain
- Signs of neurological issues
Broadbent Wildlife Sanctuary – 24/7
? www.Broadbentwildlife.org
?? 1-270-547-4200
Ruffled Feathers Parrot Sanctuary � 24/7
? www.rfpsinc.com
?? ruffledfeathers@rfpsinc.com
?? 1-502-235-7493
? Emergency transport available in the Louisville metro area
Stabilization (Days 1�7): Medical support, warmth, proper nutrition
Development (Weeks 2�6): Strength training, natural socializing, diet changes
Pre-Release (Weeks 6�12): Flight conditioning, predator awareness, foraging
- Strong flight and coordination
- Eating a wild diet
- No dependency or imprinting on humans
- Keep cats indoors during nesting season
- Add bird-safe decals to windows
- Plant native species to support insect populations
- Avoid lawn chemicals and pesticides
- ShareVolunteer as a wildlife driver this guide with neighbors and schools
- Volunteer as a wildlife driver
- Sponsor a bird in recovery ($150/month covers full care)
- Follow and tag @RFPSInc on social media
That tiny woodpecker we rescued so long ago now flies free. With your compassion and quick action, more Kentucky’s baby birds can survive�and thrive�in the wild where they belong.
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Where Hope Takes Flight
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