Info-Icon Flood Impact Alert

As floodwaters recede across the state, conditions remain dynamic. Learn about the impact of flooding on state parks, wildlife and lost vessels.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Nongame Wildlife

I found a baby bird on the ground. What should I do?

Baby birds will often leave the nest (fledge) before they have all their feathers, and before they are strong flyers. If you find a baby bird out of its nest, watch it from a safe distance. Often, the mother has simply gone to fetch the chick a meal and will return soon (within 15 to 30 minutes). Raising a chick is very difficult, and in almost every case the chick has a better chance of survival with its mother in the wild than it does in the care of well-intentioned human rescuers. If you have watched the chick and determined that it is a true orphan or that it looks very sick, call a permitted wildlife rehabilitator in your area. It is not legal for anyone to possess a bird without a permit (exceptions are the possession of house sparrows, European starlings, or pigeons, which are not protected).

Wildlife Rehabilitators