1. Assess the Situation:
- Ensure it's truly abandoned: Sometimes, parent birds leave their young temporarily to find food. Wait and observe for a while before assuming abandonment.
- Determine if the bird is injured or healthy. If it's injured, seek professional assistance.
2. Handle with Caution:
- Wear gloves to avoid transmitting any potentially harmful bacteria.
- Be delicate when handling the baby bird. Birds have fragile bones.
3. Create a Temporary Nest:
- Find a small box or container that's well-ventilated.
- Line it with soft material, such as facial tissues, paper towels, or cloth strips.
- Place the bird gently into the temporary nest.
4. Provide Warmth:
- Baby birds need consistent warmth.
- Place the nest inside a warm room, or use a heating pad (low setting) beneath half the container (give the bird an option to move away from the heat).
- Avoid direct heat sources like sunlight or heat lamps, as these can overheat the bird.
5. Offer Hydration:
- Gently offer the bird water using a dropper or syringe (without a needle).
- Drip a few drops of water into the side of its beak.
6. Feeding Guidelines:
- Consult a wildlife rehabilitation center or a professional for the appropriate diet for the baby bird.
- Generally, insectivorous birds require a high-protein diet, such as mealworms or insects, while seed-eating birds need seeds and grains.
- Place the food or water droplets near the side of its beak. Do not force-feed.
- Provide the recommended food and follow any specific instructions given by a professional.
7. Contact Wildlife Experts:
- It's best to contact a wildlife rehabilitation center or a licensed wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible. They have the necessary knowledge, facilities, and expertise to care for the baby bird properly.
Remember, trying to care for a wild baby bird on your own may have unintended negative consequences, so it's always advisable to seek professional assistance from wildlife experts.