How to Feed Wild Baby Birds Without Harming Them

Many baby birds found outside the nest have fallen as their first attempt at flying and will return to the nest on their own. If, however, you find a baby bird without a nest nearby or it is missing feathers, the bird is likely in distress. The bird should be taken to a bird rehabilitation center as soon as possible for care, since it is illegal to care for wild birds unless you are a licensed professional. However, if you are instructed by a professional to feed the baby bird, knowing the proper method will ensure you do not harm the bird.

Things You'll Need

  • Baby parrot formula
  • Hard-boiled egg yolk
  • Canned beef dog food
  • Baby oral syringe
  • Watercolor paintbrush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare a food that is appropriate for the type of bird you have found. Commercial formulas are available at your local pet store. Look for the baby parrot formula. If your bird does not have a crop, hard boil an egg. (A crop is the pouch that is found on some birds, near the throat. This pouch can act as storage for food to be saved until later. Seagulls, pigeons and owls are examples of birds with crops.) Remove the yolk and mash it up using a fork. Mix in 1/3 cup wet, canned beef dog food to the mashed egg yolk.

    • 2

      Feed your formula or prepared food to the baby bird using a baby oral syringe. Another option for solid foods is to use a child's watercolor paintbrush. Dip the brush into the food to pick up a bit. Place the food into the back of the bird's throat, by its esophagus. Because they will be hungry, the baby bird will open its mouth wide, making this easy to accomplish.

    • 3

      Feed your baby bird every 14 to 20 minutes during the daytime. At night, you will not need to feed your baby bird unless it cries in distress. Specific feeding times will vary based on the age of the bird.