One of the most common calls to Wildlife Victoria during spring is for fledgling birds found on the ground. The term "fledgling" is used to describe the developmental stage after a baby bird has left the nest.
The fledgling stage can be likened to that of toddlers. They are developing their muscles, learning through doing, and they may fall down a few times before learning to walk... or fly in the case of our bird species.
It's important to remember that although this stage is a vulnerable one, it's integral for the bird to learn foraging, survival skills, and how to fly. They stay on the ground for a couple of weeks, with most species still needing intervention from parents for food and safety until they are independent enough to survive alone.
How to tell if a baby bird needs help?
Concerned members of the community might see a fledgling on the ground and assume they need to be rescued. Removing a healthy fledgling from their parents is colloquially referred to as “bird napping” and it is important to be sure they are orphaned prior to moving them from the location.
If you see a fledgling bird, there are a few key things to check for before interfering.
Fledgling birds of certain species spend a lot of time running and hopping on the ground. This helps them to build strength as they learn to fly. The most common bird species you will see on the ground are magpies, ravens, butcherbirds and magpie larks. They normally spend a few weeks on the ground prior to taking flight.
Some young species of birds will spend more time in shrubs and on low branches when learning to fly. Species you may see exhibiting this behaviour include noisy ninors, honeyeaters, and wattlebirds species.
Parents often leave fledglings unattended for periods of time while they collect food. They may only visit during the day to feed the chick before leaving again. If you see a baby bird on the ground, monitor surrounding trees for the parents to ensure they are not just temporarily away.
A fledgling that is bright and alert will have its eyes open, watching you. They should be aware of their surroundings, and not fluffed up with eyes closed. Behaviour may differ – they may run away or stay still when you approach, they may call for their parents or stay silent.
Unlike most other species, Tawny Frogmouth fledglings should never be on the ground! They fledge from branches quite high up in trees but can fall off and are unable to return. With these fledglings, we recommend constructing a makeshift nest, the instructions can be found here.
We hope that by increasing your understanding and awareness of our beautiful wildlife, you will feel empowered to manage wildlife situations confidently and in an informed, safe and appropriate manner. For support at any time, please call our 24/7 Emergency Response Service on 03 8400 7300.