Young Birds Rescue, identification immediate care

1. Young BirdsRescue, identification & immediate care Norma Henderson WIRES Northern Beaches Branch

2. The Rescue Phone to confirm that:- It is still alive What size is it What is it Is it convenient to pick it up now

3. The rescue be preparedPeoples’ idea of size can differ Take with you in the car a carry basket or cardboard box containing a towel, hot water bottle, small bag Does it really NEED rescue Check if the parents are around If so, is it injured or thin

4. The rescue arriving home Check for injuries Check identification pointers Weigh Keep warm with heat pad, hot water bottle or 25 watt coloured party globe Rehydrate with glucose Ring with details to:- bird co-ordinator, buddy or experienced carer

5. What bird is this?Solving the puzzle How big is it Where did it come from Were the parents around Is there a nest What call does it make

6. Different types of bird Precocial chicks Hatched covered in down Run and jump Able to peck up food Altricial nestlings Hatched naked Eyes closed Totally dependent upon parents

7. Identification - Feet The most common layout is 3 toes forward 1 backward Water birds have webbed feet Kingfishers and Kookaburras have 2 toes partly joined Parrots and cuckoos have 2 front and 2 back facing toes

8. Identification - MouthGape and flanges

9. Chick housing Warmth and security are the most important aspectskeep nestling clean

10. Feeding the chick – Precocial chicksPeck up food themselves. They may need teaching

11. Feeding the chick – Altricial nestlingsMethods include spoon, syringe, stick

12. Chick “buddying” Chicks MUST be “buddied” as soon as possible to avoid imprinting and for social contact THEREFORE ring the bird co-ordinator ASAP