In the transition from the cold winter to the warmer seasons, birds migrate to their summer grounds to find safe habitats to mate, give birth, raise young, escape predators, and to locate food. A majority of the nearly 470 bird species found here in Alaska are migratory and they travel here from all seven continents!
Wildlife should never be approached in most situations. It is understandable to want to help wildlife that seems to be in trouble, but it is generally best to leave wild animals alone. Wildlife can get incredibly stressed by being handled by humans, the young and parents especially. Handling wildlife can even be detrimental to some species and impact their ability to thermoregulate or cause them to overheat. Some animals can even carry diseases that affect people and pets.
It is quite common for birds and mammals to leave their young alone for short periods or to be nearby and out of your sight, and it is very unlikely that the young are orphaned or abandoned. Animals and birds may become fiercely defensive and dangerous if they feel threatened or have infants or food to protect. Animals do not know that you may mean them no harm and even close contact can frighten them.
If you have found a baby bird, use the flow chart below to figure out the best course of action.
Here are some local and regional contacts if you have found a baby bird and are directed to call an entity according to the flow chart:
- For a sick bird, contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: 1-866-527-3358
- Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G): (907) 459-7223 or (907) 459-7206
- Bird Treatment & Learning Center, Anchorage, AK: (907) 562-4852
Resources:
Underwood, Arin. “I found a baby bird!” Alaska Fish and Wildlife News, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=wildlifenews.view_article&articles_id=1040. Accessed 29 May 2024.
Information and photos compiled by Melanie Graeff, the Programs & Events Coordinator with the Friends of Creamer’s Field.