Climbing into a nest tree not only risks injury to yourself, but it also risks damage to the nest or to the foliage that hides the nest from predators. Nestling mortality under natural conditions is very high, and our common songbirds have evolved reproductive strategies that compensate for such losses. This also applies to an abandoned nest. All too often, people take the nestlings home and attempt to hand rear them. Even if you are willing to make the commitment, consider that, in the long run, hand-reared birds have a low probability of surviving in the wild.
Parents teach their offspring to feed and to avoid danger.
They also socialize the offspring. Contacting your state natural resource agency and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service before you take nestlings into possession. Your local animal control office or zoological society may also be able to provide you with the names of licensed wildlife rehabilitators in your area. Return to the list of frequently asked questions.