Massachusetts Wildlife Rehabilitator Practice Exam

If a healthy fledgling bird is found, what is the best course of action?

1. Take the bird in for care

2. Place the bird in a nearby bush and leave

3. Remain to observe the bird for a while

4. Ignore the situation

The correct answer is: Place the bird in a nearby bush and leave

When encountering a healthy fledgling bird, the best course of action is to place the bird in a nearby bush and leave. Fledgling birds are often in a vulnerable stage of their development, where they are learning to fly and become independent. It is typical for them to leave the nest before they can fly fully. By placing the bird in a nearby bush, you are helping it find a safer location while still allowing it to practice its natural behaviors, such as hopping around and attempting to fly. Leaving the area soon after gives the fledgling the opportunity to explore and to be rescued by its parents, who are likely nearby and watching. This approach minimizes stress on the bird and increases its chances of survival in the wild. Observing the bird for a while could lead to unnecessary stress for both the observer and the bird. While monitoring its surroundings is important to ensure it is safe, prolonged observation can disrupt the fledgling's natural parent-child interactions. Taking the bird into care when it is healthy is generally not advised, as it can hamper its development and learning process. Ignoring the situation altogether could also lead to potential dangers for the fledgling if it is left in a vulnerable state without parental oversight.