It’s often possible to reunite the young with their parents
by placing the baby directly in the nest or den, or in a box close to where it
was found. If a bird nest has been destroyed, an artificial nest can be created
and placed near the original nest.
Young birds spend a lot of time hopping around
awkwardly as they learn to fly. This behavior can make an observer think that
the bird has a broken wing or has fallen out of the nest, but it is a crucial
step in development. If you find a baby bird in your yard and are afraid that
it will be hurt, clear the area until the parents can return to their
fledgling. Contrary to a popular myth, birds will not abandon their young if
they detect human scent.
Both fawns and baby cottontails are left alone for most of
the day and night, and are only fed two or three times during the day. A
youngster alone doesn’t always mean it is an orphan.
Occasionally, an animal may actually be sick or injured. Don’t
try to rescue wildlife yourself, especially those that appear ill. If you find
an animal, make sure it is actually in trouble. Looks for signs of injury
or listlessness. Then contact your city or county animal control staff or local
wildlife rehabilitator for advice. If you must intervene, keep the animal in a
secure container lined with clothing and place it in a warm, dark, quiet place.
Do not attempt to feed or water it. Injured wild animals in captivity may
strike out from fear and pain. With few exceptions, all wildlife in Iowa are
protected and federal and/or state permits are required to rehabilitate injured
animals.
List of Iowa Wildlife Rehabilitators - http://www.iowadnr.gov/portals/idnr/uploads/files/wildliferehab.pdf
National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association - http://www.nwrawildlife.org/content/help-ive-found-animal
