So, you’ve found a baby bird on the ground chirping away for help, and just like that, you’re a new bird parent. But there’s just one problem. You have no idea what to feed your new feathered child. Before you start Googling recipes for worm smoothies, here’s what to feed a baby bird in an emergency and how to protect it, so you can give your new little friend the best shot at survival.

 

What Homemade Food Can You Feed a Baby Bird in an Emergency?

You can offer emergency food substitutes if you can’t get to a vet immediately. Depending on the bird species, you can try:

  • Soft dog or cat food soaked in warm water to a mushy consistency
  • Unseasoned scrambled eggs
  • Mashed-up insects or mealworms for insectivorous birds
  • Moistened plain baby cereal for grain-eating birds.

Pro tip: Don’t force-feed. Gently touch the food to the edge of their beak and let them decide when to nibble.

 

What Not to Feed Baby Birds

Yes, it may be an emergency. Some foods can do more harm than good.

  • Milk: While milk sounds like the “nurturing” thing to feed them, baby birds can’t digest dairy.
  • Bread: It might fill their little bellies, but it offers zero nutrients. Instead, go for that moistened baby cereal we mentioned earlier on.
  • Raw meat: Too risky! It can introduce harmful bacteria and do more harm than good.
  • Rice: It’s hard to digest and can lead to bloating, which is not ideal for tiny tummies.
  • Fruit seeds: Some, like apple seeds, contain toxins. If you’re offering fruit, make sure you’ve cut the core out and removed the seeds.

Avocado: Avo might be trendy for humans, but it is toxic to birds.

 

How Often Should You Feed a Baby Bird?

Feeding frequency will vary from every fifteen minutes to every two hours, depending on the species and age. If the bird looks weak or isn’t begging for food, get it to a professional ASAP!

 

Can You Give a Baby Bird Water?

Nope! Unlike adult birds, baby birds don’t drink water. They get all their hydration from their food. Dropping water directly into their beaks can cause choking or drowning.

 

Our Final Chirp on Feeding Baby Birds

Now that you know how to feed a baby bird, you’re better prepared to give a little life a fighting chance!

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