RSPB RECOMMENDS NOT HELPING FLEDGLING CHICKS 'UNLESS THEY ARE IN IMMEDIATE DANGER'
Although the RSPB recommends not interfering with fledglings, the charity said there are circumstances when Britons should come to the birds aid.
Immediate danger
If the baby bird is on a busy road or path, the RSPB advises picking the bird up and moving it a short distance to a safe place such as a dense shrubbery.
This must be within hearing distance of where it was found. UK birds have a poor sense of smell and won't abandon their young if they are touched.
If a cat or dog is spotted eyeing up a fledgling, then you are advised to keep your domestic pet indoors for a few days - or at least around dawn and dusk.
Injury
Those who find an injured fledgling should report it to the RSPB. They can be contacted on 0300 1234 999.
Swifts found on the ground need help
Nestlings
If a baby bird is discovered on the ground without feathers or covered in fluff, then it is a nestling that has likely fallen from its nest before it is ready.
These youngsters can sometimes be put back in their nests, but the RSPB says you should only attempt this if you are 100 per cent sure you have found its home and it is safe to do this.
It's also important to remember that sometimes adult birds eject their chicks if they sense an underlying health problem, or if it is dying.
Grounded swifts
If you find a fallen swift it should be placed in a shoebox and kept away from noise and other disturbances. You can give it water by running a wet cotton bud around the edge of its beak.
These animals are hard to care for, so the RSPB recommends contacting a swift carer. They are listed here.
Baby barn owns should be returned to their nests if they are found on the ground
Barn owl chicks
Some people may also come across barn owl chicks, which normally leave nests before they can fly.
The RSPB states that Owlets in this case do need help, as those on the ground will be ignored by their parents. They recommend gently placing it back into the nest.
Owls have a poor sense of smell and won't reject a baby because it was handled by humans. You can check whether it is healthy at this website.
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