Audubon Society offers tips to protect baby birds this spring
The Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania, which has nature parks in both Buffalo and Penn townships, said backyard birders in Butler County can help protect their feathered friends as they fledge the nest this spring.
A news release from the society said birds are now creating nests in Western Pennsylvania, meaning property owners, parkgoers or campers could discover a baby bird that is out of its nest.
The society offered the following information to help a baby bird remain with its parents:
* Birds grow very rapidly and sometimes leave the nest before their feathers fully grow out.
* Most times, humans should leave baby birds alone that they find on the ground. The bird likely fluttered to the ground during its maiden voyage, and its parents are probably nearby to help.
* Most birds have multiple chicks and the parents will split their time looking after their brood.
* If a baby bird is in direct sunlight or exposed to predators or other dangers, it should be moved into a nearby bush or shrub where the parent can find it.
* Contrary to popular belief, a mother bird will not abandon a chick that has been handled by a human.
* A licensed rehabilitator should be contacted if a bird appears injured, but it’s not necessary for a baby bird that has fallen out of the nest.
Regarding Western Pennsylvania’s tiniest avian, society experts say ruby-throated hummingbirds are now making their way back to the region, and hummingbird feeders should be filled and hung.
Liquid hummingbird feeders should be kept clean, and nectar should be changed weekly or more often during hot weather.
More information about birds in general, attracting hummingbirds, native plants and beneficial insects is available at aswp.org.
