SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – As the weather continues to warm up, wildlife officials reminded what Utahns should do if they find a baby bird on the ground, a nest with eggs, or ducklings.
Utah’s Division of Wildlife Resources said it’s not unusual to find baby birds on the ground this time of year.
Many birds are hatching and often leave their nests before they are able to fly. Spring storms can also blow them out of nests.
“They usually chirp and call from the nest, waiting for their parents to bring food to them,” Blair Stringham, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources migratory game bird program coordinator, said. “Sometimes, that results in them falling from their perch.”
If you find one with feathers leave it alone.
If you find one without feathers you can put it back in the nest. If you can’t find the nest DWR said it’s ok to put the bird on a branch where it’s safe from dogs and cats.
“The baby will squawk, and its parents will find it,” Stringham said.
Unlike other wild animals, you don’t have to worry about leaving your scent on the chick.
Don’t feed them either. You could end up killing it if you give it the wrong food.
Avoid disturbing or moving bird nests that have eggs or baby birds in them.
(Used by permission, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources)
There are also rules to follow if you come across ducklings. If you find one, don’t move it or try to put it in the water. DWR said baby ducks should be left alone, unless they are trapped in a storm drain or somewhere else dangerous, like in a swimming pool.
Call the nearest DWR office or your city officials if you find a duckling in a storm drain.
Additional information about how to help baby birds is also available on the Wild Aware Utah website.
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