Baby pigeons are one of the most commonly misunderstood birds. Many people assume they have been abandoned, but this is rarely the case. UNLESS they are yellow and have no feathers.. then they need immediate help with warmth, NO food or water, and contact a rescue immediately.
Pigeon parents are usually excellent caregivers to their fledglings. Once babies reach a certain age, they often leave the nest and spend time on the ground while still being fed by their parents.
You may not see the parents, but they are usually nearby, watching and waiting for you to move away.
If the baby looks alert, warm, active, and not injured:
• Leave it where it is
• Keep pets and children away
• Observe from a distance
If the baby is in immediate danger, you can move it to a nearby safe spot such as under a bush or onto a sheltered ledge nearby. Make sure the parents cannot see you if you hang around or they will not attend to their baby.
When to intervene:
• The baby is injured
• The baby is cold or weak
• There are flies or maggots present
• The baby has been caught by a cat
• The baby is in immediate danger
• The baby is still a yellow nestling or does not have proper feathers
If intervention is needed:
• Place in a ventilated box, with a towel
• Keep warm and quiet
• Contact a wildlife rescue asap
Do not:
• Do not try to feed
• Do not give water
• Do not give bread, milk, or seeds
Baby pigeons require very specialist feeding techniques and formulas. Incorrect feeding can cause choking, aspiration, and death.
Sometimes the kindest thing you can do is simply watch from a distance and allow parents to continue their job.
You did the right thing by checking 🤍🐦
