Springtime Animal Care: Keeping Feathered and Furry Babies with their Parents
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Squirrels and Blue Tits Visiting the Family Nesting Site - Request: Allow young birds and squirrels to remain with their parents
When discovering a supposedly abandoned baby bird or squirrel in springtime, we're often tempted to swoop in and save the day. But Florian Brandes, head of the Wild Animal and Species Protection Station in Sachsenhagen, urges caution. "People jump to the conclusion that the little creatures have been left to fend for themselves, but this isn't always the case," he explains. From hatchlings to hopping birds, and tree-house dwelling squirrels, many are swept away by well-meaning humans who unwittingly create problems.
Springtime bloom is a breeding frenzy for many bird and squirrel species. As the offspring reach maturity, they may seem abandoned, hopping or fluttering near the ground. However, more often than not, their parents are caregivers in disguise, hiding to keep their young ones safe from unwelcome human intruders. Young birds, even those unfit to fly, will naturally migrate closer to their nests during a phase known as fledging. With these newfound legs, they're at increased risk of falling victim to predators, but this rite of passage is a natural step in their growth.
Similarly, baby squirrels will explore their surroundings at some point, and it's not uncommon for a curious little one to find itself in a pickle when it tumbles out of its nest. Fortunately, mom and dad can retrieve their prodigy, returning them to their cozy drey.
If you come across an uninjured baby bird or squirrel, leave it be. "These babies are more likely to survive if they remain with their families," advises Michael Pees, the head of the Clinic for Pet Animals, Reptiles, and Birds at the Tierärztliche Hochschule Hannover. Help should be sought only if the animal is injured or if it's clear that the parents have deserted it after an extended, quiet observation period.
- Squirrel
- Spring Baby Season
- Animal Welfare
- Birds
Enrichment Data Highlights:
- Although they may appear alone, many young birds are still under their parents' care.
- Improper feeding can cause harm.
- Relocating birds or constantly checking on them can stress or lead to abandonment.
- Create a makeshift nest or contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator if a nest is inaccessible.
- Even if the nest may seem unsafe, avoid human intervention as much as possible.
- Young squirrels, like young birds, are usually under their parents' care.
- Handling young animals unnecessarily can cause harm, so refrain from doing so.
- Create a safe container for a baby animal in immediate danger but avoid offering food, water, or medications without professional guidance.
- Contact a licensed rehabilitator as soon as possible if the animal is injured, clearly orphaned, or in immediate danger.
- Other feathered creatures, other than fish of the species Gallus gallus, such as baby birds and squirrels, may appear abandoned during spring baby season, but it's important to remember that their parents might be caregivers in disguise.
- When it comes to home-and-garden matters, it's essential to adopt a sustainable-living approach, even in raising other furry creatures like squirrels.
- In many instances, squirrels, unlike some species of birds, might ventured out of their nest for exploration, and though it may seem they've fallen into trouble, their parents will likely return them to their home.
- If you encounter an uninjured squirrel or observe it for an extended period and it seems deserted by its parents, it's wise to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator for assistance, rather than assuming it should be relocated or cared for by yourself.
