Experts say it’s normal for a goofy-looking bird on the ground to be a baby and perfectly fine

It’s that time of year again when animal rescue experts are flooded with calls about seemingly drunk and disoriented baby birds stumbling around on the ground. In eastern Newfoundland, Karen Gosse of the Rock Wildlife Rescue is receiving numerous calls about baby crows, prompting her to reassure concerned citizens that these goofy-looking birds are just going through their awkward fledgling stage.

“These baby crows are just trying to get their wings open and find their balance. They may appear uncoordinated and even open their mouths at people, giving the impression that something is wrong with them,” Gosse explained.

Despite their appearance, these fledglings are not in distress. In fact, Michael Mesure of FLAP Canada, a bird conservation charity, emphasizes that most wild birds go through a similar phase where they leave the nest and spend time on the ground learning essential skills like flying and feeding. These fledglings can be mistaken for injured adult birds, leading well-meaning individuals to call animal rescue centers for help.

However, Mesure warns that intervening unnecessarily can overwhelm rehab centers, preventing them from assisting truly injured birds. He advises that unless a fledgling is in immediate danger from predators or traffic, it is best to leave them alone and let nature take its course.

If intervention is necessary, Mesure recommends using caution, as adult birds, especially crows, will fiercely defend their young. It is essential to cover hands with gloves or paper towels when handling the bird and be prepared for resistance from both the fledgling and its protective parents.

Gosse notes that baby crows can be identified by their blue eyes, short tail feathers, and pink mouth corners. They typically spend a week or two on the ground before learning to fly, with their parents continuing to feed and care for them during this time.

As fledgling season continues, it is crucial for the public to understand that these seemingly clumsy birds are simply going through a natural stage of development. By allowing them space and time to grow, we can ensure that they have the best chance of thriving in the wild.