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How to Care for a Mockingbird

Northern mockingbirds are slim, gray songbirds common throughout United States. They prefer semiopen areas, such as suburbs. Though mockingbirds get their name from their ability to mimic other birds, species and sounds, they also compose their own continuous, varied songs. If you find an abandoned baby bird or injured adult mockingbird, attempt to return it to its nest before taking the bird into your home.

Things You'll Need

Plastic berry basket
Wire
Shoebox

Instructions

- 1
  Watch the bird for an hour or two to assess its condition. The bird may be temporarily disoriented or hurt. If the mother returns to the baby bird or the adult bird starts flying, hopping around or moving at a normal pace, let it be. If the bird is in a high-traffic area or near a predator, move to the next step immediately instead of waiting an hour.
- 2
  Look for the baby bird's nest and return it. If the bird is injured or an adult, move to the next step. The parents will still accept the bird despite it having been touched by a human. If you can't find the nest, line a plastic berry basket with grass and use wire to attach it to a shady nearby tree or bush. Place the bird in the new nest and check it every half hour until the parents return. If the parents don't return within two hours, move to the next step.
- 3
  Place an injured bird or abandoned baby bird in a shoebox with holes punched in the top for ventilation. Place the box in a warm quiet place. Do not give the bird food or water, which can make the bird ill or cause it to choke.
- 4
  Contact your local wildlife rescue association immediately. Volunteer and professional rescue workers will care for the bird and do their best to restore its health.

Animals & Science