What to Do if You Find a Baby Bird

The advent of spring often brings with it an abundance of sightings of animals' cute little offspring. But not every sighting is a pleasant one - sometimes it appears the animals may be in danger or injured.

Yesterday, I came across three baby birds in my travels around town (taking photos for the ). I nearly stepped on them as I walked along the sidewalk at the corner of Canaan Road and Franklin Avenue. Someone or something already had it appeared, as one was no longer alive. Another one looked in really bad shape. I actually didn't think it was alive until it let out a little chirp. The third seemed to be in much better condition, yet still so frail and vulnerable.

My heart went out to these little birds, who must have fallen out of their nest in the tree above. The sun was at its strongest point in the day and temperatures were approaching the mid-90s. I had to do something.

So I called to see what I should do. Apparently I am not the only one calling with inquiries like this.

"It's springtime so we do get quite a few calls [about baby animal sightings], said Animal Control Officer Angelique Fitzmorris.

She suggested I carefully place the animals in a basket and leave them in a safe place near the tree, and assured me that their mother or father would most likely be back soon to take care of them.

I didn't have a basket in the car so I used a napkin and moved the two birds to a nook at the base of the tree. I hope they survive.

If you come across a baby bird or animal, Fitzmorris said sometimes the best thing is to do nothing, because the parents will undoubtedly return to take care of their offspring. However, if you feel the situation warrants action, consult animal control or a wildlife rehabilitator.

You can also get step-by-step instructions on what to do by visiting this page of the National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association.