Massachusetts Wildlife Rehabilitator Practice Exam

True or False: If a cat is threatening a fledgling bird, the best action is to bring the bird inside and leave the cat outside.

1. True

2. False

3. Not safe

4. Not recommended

The correct answer is: False

Bringing a fledgling bird inside while leaving the threatening cat outside is not a safe or recommended action. While it may seem instinctive to protect the bird from the cat, this approach can create additional problems. Fledgling birds are often at an important stage of their development, where they are learning to fly and become independent. If a bird is removed from its environment, it could disrupt its natural learning process and potentially cause more harm than good. Furthermore, the cat may pose an ongoing threat to the bird's safety if it is allowed to roam freely outside. The recommended practice in such situations is to monitor the fledgling closely and, if necessary, intervene in a manner that keeps both the bird and the cat safe. This might involve using deterrents to keep the cat away or temporarily confining it until the bird has the chance to leave the area safely. It's important to act in the best interest of the wildlife involved, promoting their natural behaviors while minimizing dangers from pets or other threats.