Sometimes a baby bird is injured and needs your help. Sometimes nature has it handled. Knowing how to tell the difference earns you an honorary ‘bird hero’ badge.
South Africa (07 November 2025) – November is a busy time for birds. Nestlings grow into fledglings and eventually learn to spread their wings. It’s also more common to encounter baby birds that are grounded around this time of year.
Your first instinct might be to jump in and save the chick or get it back to its nest, but there is more you should know before you do.
“Baby birds spend a lot of time in the nest as nestlings. After that, they stay close to and explore the area around the nest as fledglings, before they can fully fly and leave the area. During this time, a variety of things can cause the chick to land on the ground,” shares the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI).
In other words, not every baby bird on the ground is in trouble. This isn’t to say that you should ignore a grounded chick if you spot one; it’s about knowing what to look out for.
Baby birds go through two development stages: as nestlings when they are small, weak, and not fully feathered and as fledglings, when they are fully feathered but still learning how to fly.
If It’s a Nestling…
Nestlings genuinely need help if they’ve fallen from the nest. If you can safely find and reach the nest, gently warm the bird in your hands and place it back. And don’t worry, its parents will not reject their baby because you touched it. That myth has been busted by SANBI.
If It’s a Fledgling…
On the other hand, it’s not unusual to find a fledgling hopping around and finding its feet while its capable parents keep watch from nearby branches. Most people mistake a healthy fledgling for an abandoned chick. Wildlife organisations see many young and healthy birds accidentally ‘kidnapped’ by people trying to help.
If it’s not visibly injured, the best thing to do is leave it in a safe spot close to where you found it. The parents will continue caring for it. If it’s not in a safe spot or if you’re unsure, phone a vet.
If It’s Injured…
If a chick is injured, you should act fast. If it’s bleeding, has an open wound, has been in a cat or dog’s mouth, or is covered in fly eggs (little white grains that look like rice), it needs medical help. Immediately phone a vet who will be able to assist or point you to a wildlife rehabilitator. Let the experts advise on the best course of action and what your next steps should be.
Don’t raise it yourself…
Baby birds are very difficult to care for. They need specialised care and food, as well as proper rehabilitation so they can return to the wild safely.
Knowing what to do in these scenarios protects birds and the resources of rehab centres, which are often flooded this time of year. The golden rule is to phone an expert if you’re unsure. You’re never bothering anyone by asking. A quick call can save a bird’s life.
by 