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Fledgling

I Found a Fledgling Bird

Fledgling

Fledglings have left their nest and they are learning to fly. Please do not assume that these birds are orphans! Stop, look, and listen!

What do they look like?

Fledgling birds are fully feathered and can have some downy feathers still poking out. 

Is the bird really orphaned?

If an adult appears and feeds the bird, it is not orphaned and the bird should be left alone, even if it seems like you should try and help the animal. Quietly observe the bird from a distance for at least two hours in order to determine if it is orphaned.

If the fledgling has had contact with a dog or cat, or if there are obvious signs of injury, it should be brought to Greenwood.

If the fledgling has had contact with a dog or cat, or if there are obvious signs of injury, it should be brought to Greenwood. Please call (303) 823-8455.

Every year Greenwood Wildlife receives fledglings that are not truly orphaned. Even though it seems like a dangerous world out there for a fledgling, their best chances for survival happen when they are raised by a parent. Please help prevent “kidnapping” of fledglings that are not orphaned by taking the time to determine if the animal really needs your help before transporting it to us.

What to Do

If you determine that an animal needs to be brought to our facility, please follow these instructions for capturing and transporting animals.