Massachusetts Wildlife Rehabilitator Practice Exam

If a fledgling bird is found in a yard, how long should someone observe before deciding on action?

1. Immediately act

2. A few minutes

3. A few hours

4. All day

The correct answer is: A few hours

When a fledgling bird is found in a yard, observing it for a few hours is essential before deciding on any action. This period allows an individual to determine whether the fledgling is truly in distress or if it is simply learning to fly and being temporarily grounded. During this time, it is possible to see if the bird is actively being fed by its parents, which indicates that it is not abandoned. Additionally, fledgling birds are often in a crucial phase of development, where they are gaining strength in their wings and practicing taking flight. If the bird appears healthy and the parents are nearby providing care, intervention may not be necessary. However, if after a few hours the fledgling remains unresponsive and shows signs of weakness or distress, then one may consider taking action. This practice supports natural behavior and reduces unnecessary human intervention, which is crucial for wildlife rehabilitation.