What is what to do when you find a bird egg on the ground?

It's important to know the right way to handle finding a bird egg on the ground to give it the best chance of survival. Here's what you should do:

• Observe: First, determine if the egg is truly abandoned. Watch from a distance, preferably from inside your house, for at least an hour or two to see if the parents return. Birds often leave the nest briefly to forage for food.

• Look for the Nest: The best thing to do is to try and find the nest. If you can locate it, gently place the egg back in the nest. Birds do not have a strong sense of smell and will not abandon their young because you touched the egg. Contrary to popular belief, this is usually the best course of action.

• If the Nest is Destroyed or Inaccessible: If the nest is destroyed (e.g., fallen from a tree) or inaccessible, you can attempt to create a makeshift nest. Use a small basket or container and line it with soft materials like dry grass, leaves, or paper towels. Secure the makeshift nest as close as possible to the original location, ideally within sight of where the egg was found. Place the egg gently inside. Continue to observe from a distance to see if the parents will accept the egg in the new nest.

• Egg Care (If Re-nesting Fails): This is a last resort! Raising a wild bird is difficult and often unsuccessful, and in some places, it may even be illegal without proper permits. If you've tried re-nesting and the parents haven't returned after a reasonable amount of time (several hours), the egg may need specialized care. It needs to be kept warm and at the right temperature. Use an incubator or a makeshift incubator using a box, a thermometer, and a heat source (like a reptile heating pad set on low). Proper humidity is also crucial. However, the chances of successful hatching and raising a wild bird without expert knowledge are very low.

• Contact a Wildlife Rehabilitator: This is the best option if the egg is truly abandoned and you're unable to re-nest it. A licensed https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/wildlife%20rehabilitator has the expertise, resources, and permits to properly care for the egg and, if it hatches, raise the bird for eventual release back into the wild. Search online for wildlife rehabilitation centers in your area.

• Important Considerations:

  • Legality: Check your local laws and regulations regarding the handling of wild bird eggs and birds. Many species are protected.
  • Hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling the egg or nest.
  • Don't Keep It: Do not attempt to raise the bird as a pet. Wild birds belong in the wild.

In short, always prioritize returning the egg to its parents if possible. If not, seek professional help from a https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/licensed%20rehabilitator.