At one point or another many of us have found a baby bird. They are certainly adorable little birds and are often thought to be an orphan. Orphaned birds are actually pretty rare, and most often a young chic is simply entering a normal part of their short childhood called the "fledge" . This is when they first leave the nest. They are not yet comfortable fliers and spend lots of time in branches and even on the ground trying to learn to fly and feed themselves while hiding from predators. The parents intentionally wean them away from their food as to help promote ambition for the little ones as they start to look for their own prey items. I have often been asked what to do when you find a baby bird and I always say the same thing, If at all possible, "put it back". It needs its own parents wisdom. Even if you can only get the chic "near" the nest that's ok. You can create your own temporary nest out of cardboard or a bowl and set that somewhere that the parent bird can find it. If you are in a situation where you can not return the young one to its parents then search online for a local wildlife rehabilitator in your area. They will instruct you on what to do. Remember young birds are extremely sensitive and in some stages must eat as much as every 20 minutes sun up to sun down. So even with the best of intentions, taking the chic and trying to raise it yourself without proper experience and guidance can actually be dangerous for the young bird. With good knowledge we can ensure that we are helping the little one in the best way possible. There are many bird species each with its own niche. Learning their song actually helps you identify a species without even seeing them. Birds are incredible living dinosaurs and an absolute delight to admire with the entire family.

I'm Mark Fraser and I'll see you next time and until then, you can join me online and catch up on all the exciting Nature Walks news at my website;
http://www.naturewalkswithmark.org. Thanks to the support of wonderful friends wildlife has a new voice! As of 2012 there is a brand new conservation organization helping to raise wildlife conservation awareness called the Nature Walks Conservations Society! http://www.naturewalksCS.org. Thanks to all of you We really can make a difference! Watch for us on Facebook! Stay Tuned and please share this film to help promote awareness!