Basic bird care

P.O. Box 1897, Kailua, HI 96734

Wild Bird Rehab Haven

providing support to hawaii's wild birds

Basic bird care

Heat

A naked baby bird must be kept on heat. If the bird feels cool, the bird is too cold. Placing a heating pad on low under half of the container allows even a naked baby bird to move off, or closer to, the heat if it chooses.

Hydration

Weak or injured birds usually need rehydrating. They can slowly be given sips of Gatorade or a sugar water mixture which can then be given by dipping your finger in the liquid and running your finger along its beak so the liquid can slowly seep inside. Sugar water mixture is five parts water to one part sugar or honey.

Safety

Carefully place the bird in a covered container (allow for air holes). The container should be soft, warm and padded. Keep the bird in a quiet place, giving it access to heat.

Feeding

All baby birds should be fed for 12 hours daily (e.g. 8am to 8pm)

Most formulas should NOT be microwaved, as it will kill the probiotics in the mix. Made formula can be kept in the fridge for up to four hours (BE SURE TO WARM BEFORE GIVING TO A BABY) and if it isn't a hot day or house has air-conditioning, up to two hours. Doves should receive fresh formula each time they are fed.

The "belly" area (right in front of the vent) of all the birds listed here can be felt to determine whether or not more feed needs to be given. The area will protrude a bit like a round paunch but should not feel taut or stretched. Sometimes babies will ask for more when they are already full, Mejiros particularly, and if fed, may bring up food and aspirate. All of these birds have a tracheal (breathing) hole that is very noticeable when they gape; it is behind the tongue on the lower mandible (lower beak). Do NOT try to push the syringe down this hole, but rather put it behind the hole.

Never feed birds tomatoes, potatoes, avocados, chocolate, or dairy products (with the exception of cottage cheese for softbills). Mynahs can also be given hard cheeses (parmesan, Romano) in limited quantities.

For detailed information on what and how to feed a bird, click on its species name or picture below.

Wild bird diets