Use care when dealing with grounded birds

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MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho --  As nesting season continues in the local area, officials with the 366th Civil Engineer Squadron advise base people to use care if they find fledgling birds on the ground.

Most grounded birds are not injured or in danger, and don't need human intervention, said Angelia Binder, 366th Civil Engineer Squadron environmental flight.

Fledgling birds need time to develop their flying feathers, and it's often best to leave them alone to avoid interfering with their natural development, she added.

People who spot grounded baby birds should remember the following steps.

Don't handle raptors or owls, especially injured adults, since they use their sharp beaks and talons if they feel threatened. Those who find one should call the environmental flight at 828-6351 for instructions.

"When dealing with wild animals, people should speak softly and remain calm, as load noises and harsh tones can make the situation more stressful for the animal," Ms. Binder said.

People who spot baby birds in danger from cars, pets or other wildlife should move them to a safe location. It's best to walk slowly toward the bird and "shoo" it in the safe direction, Ms. Binder said. If it doesn't move on its own and doesn't look injured, catch it with a light cloth and put it back in the nest if possible, keeping in mind baby birds could move suddenly or make noise. Be firm but gentle.

Those who can't find the nest or if it's out of reach should move the bird to a safe, outdoor location like a fenced backyard. The parents will continue to care for their baby until it can fly.

It's a good idea to ensure the bird's parents are around before leaving it, Ms. Binder said. It may take them minutes or hours to return to the baby if people are nearby. If the parents don't return, call the environmental flight or the Animal Emergency Clinic in Boise at 376-4510.

People who find a baby bird that moves poorly should check it for injuries like bleeding wounds or immobile wings or legs. If the bird is injured, people should call the environmental flight or the animal clinic who, in turn, will get it to qualified people to care for it. If it's necessary to move it or take it to a vet, put the injured animal in a suitably sized cardboard box with plenty of air holes. Remember to prepare the box completely before the bird goes in.