First and foremost, it is crucial to identify the bird species before feeding it. This is because different bird species have varying dietary needs. In general, baby birds are either insectivores, seed-eaters, or a combination of both. If you can’t accurately identify the bird species, it’s best to get in touch with a nearby wildlife rescue center or veterinarian for assistance.
Once you have identified the bird species, it’s time to prepare the food. Insectivorous birds such as robins and thrushes require a protein-rich diet, which means feeding them mealworms, crickets, or pieces of hard-boiled egg. Baby birds that are seed-eaters, such as finches and sparrows, require a diet of small seeds, such as millet, canary seed, and crushed sunflower seeds. It’s important to ensure that the seeds are small enough for the baby bird to swallow easily.
Assemble the feeding materials, which typically includes a syringe, a soft fabric or paper towel, and a container to hold the food. The syringe should be a 1 cc size with a silicone tip for easy use. It’s important to ensure that the syringe is clean and sterilized before using it. You can use boiling water to sterilize the syringe, but ensure that it cools down before use.
Next, prepare the food. If you’re feeding an insectivorous bird, mix the mealworms or crickets with water to make a paste-like consistency. Strain the mixture through a sieve to remove any lumps, and draw up the mixture into the syringe. If you’re feeding a seed-eating bird, mix the seeds with water until it forms a paste. As with the previous mixture, strain it through a sieve and draw up the mixture into the syringe.
Feeding the baby bird may seem challenging at first; however, it’s relatively easy, with a little practice. Hold the syringe and fabric or soft paper towel to prevent the baby bird from falling over or getting injured. Gently hold the back of the chick’s head with your free hand and insert the silicone tip of the syringe into the mouth of the chick. Slowly press the syringe’s plunger to administer food to the bird. It’s important to measure the food, depending on the bird’s age and size. If you’re unsure of the amount to feed, consult with an expert.
Introduce feeding gradually. A small amount of food during each feeding is enough for a baby bird, and continuous feeding will cause digestive problems. As the chick grows, it will require more food and bigger portions, and feeding will become more natural. Ensure that the baby bird is warm and kept in a comfortable, quiet place while feeding.
If you’ve found a baby bird that has fallen out of its nest, it’s essential to feed the bird regularly and consistently. Regular feeding of the bird will help it grow healthy and increase its chances of survival. Finally, it’s also imperative to note that feeding a baby bird requires specialized care as it can be a delicate process. In any case, if you’re unsure about anything, do not hesitate to reach out to a nearby vet or wildlife rescue center for guidance.