Young BirdsRescue, identification & immediate care

Norma Henderson

WIRES Northern Beaches Branch

The Rescue

Phone to confirm that:-

It is still alive What size is it What is it Is it convenient to pick it

up now

The rescue be preparedPeoples’ idea of size can differ

Take with you in the car a carry basket or cardboard box containing a towel, hot water bottle, small bag

Does it really NEED rescue

Check if the parents are around

If so, is it injured or thin

The rescue arriving home

Check for injuries Check identification pointers Weigh Keep warm with heat pad,

hot water bottle or 25 watt coloured party globe

Rehydrate with glucose

Ring with details to:- bird co-ordinator, buddy or experienced carer

What bird is this?Solving the puzzle

How big is it Where did it come from Were the parents

around Is there a nest What call does it make

Different types of bird

Precocial chicks Hatched covered in down Run and jump Able to peck up food

Altricial nestlings Hatched naked Eyes closed Totally dependent upon

parents

Identification - Feet

The most common layout is 3 toes forward 1 backward

Water birds have webbed feet

Kingfishers and Kookaburras have 2 toes partly joined

Parrots and cuckoos have 2 front and 2 back facing toes

Identification - MouthGape and flanges

Chick housing Warmth and security are the most important aspectskeep nestling clean

Feeding the chick – Precocial chicksPeck up food themselves. They may need teaching

Feeding the chick – Altricial nestlingsMethods include spoon, syringe, stick

Chick “buddying”

Chicks MUST be “buddied” as soon as possible to avoid imprinting and for social contact

THEREFORE ring the bird co-ordinator ASAP