Found fallen baby birds, no parents. How to feed and care for them?

Question

Hey! So, this morning we found three nestlings birds (they can't open their eyes yet) that had fallen with their nest then we put them in a box with their nest close where we found them. It's been hours and still no sign of their parents. They seem healthy, but when we tried feeding them mashed cat food they refused to open their mouth. Will their parents return? Should we be feeding them? Should we keep them inside at night time? Thank you for your attention. please get back ASAP.

Linda G, MS, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hello. Depending on what species the birds are, it may be hours before the parents return. The best thing to do if you do not see any activity around the nest is to call a wildlife rehabilitator. Here in the US, there are many bird loving people that have the time & experience to raise baby birds. It is a huge commitment. If nothing like this is available in your area, then you may need to raise the birds. They need to be fed every 2 hours from dawn to dusk. I use a mash of pate type dog food & chick starter. Use a small wooden dowel or stick, & gently tap the side of the beak. That usually stimulates the bird to open up. Then you place about a small pea sized piece of food down the throat. The babies must be kept warm with either a heating pad or a brooder lamp. There are also many videos available to help. Go to YouTube & type in caring for orphaned baby birds. Good luck.

Found fallen baby birds, no parents. How to feed and care for them?

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