The Ogden Nature Center is not licensed to accept injured wildlife. However, we’re here to help guide you on what steps to take if you come across a lost or injured bird.
You can use this helpful flowchart by the Wildlife Rehab of Northern Utah to determine the best course of action.
Not All Birds Need Help
It’s very common to find young birds on the ground during spring and summer. In many cases, especially with baby birds, intervention is not necessary. It’s common to see young birds on the ground as they learn essential survival skills. This stage, known as fledging, is a natural and critical part of their development. Though they may appear vulnerable, their parents are usually nearby, keeping watch.
In fact, it’s estimated that around 80% of baby birds brought to wildlife rehabilitators are not actually in need of rescue. Taking fledglings out of the wild prematurely can do more harm than good. Unless there is clear danger, it’s best to leave these young birds alone. If you're able, keep children and pets away and give the bird space.
When You Should Step In
There are times, though rare, when a bird genuinely needs help. The first thing to do is observe the bird quietly from a distance. If you notice obvious signs of injury, it’s time to contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Signs of injury could include bleeding, a wing hanging oddly, difficulty standing, or if the bird was caught in a cat’s mouth. View the resources below to find a rehabber near you.
If there are no visible injuries, your next step is to determine whether the bird is a nestling or a fledgling. Nestlings are very young birds, typically with little to no feathers and no ability to fly. These birds should still be in the nest. If you find one on the ground, look for the nest nearby. If it’s reachable, you can carefully place the bird back inside. It’s a common myth that birds will reject their young if touched by humans, but most birds have a poor sense of smell and will readily continue caring for their chicks.
Fledglings, on the other hand, are feathered and active, though not yet strong fliers. They often leave the nest before they’re fully flight-capable, and it’s normal to see them hopping around on the ground or perching low in bushes. Unless they’re in immediate danger, such as near a busy road, in the path of a lawn mower, or exposed to pets, the best thing you can do is leave them be. If necessary, you can move the bird a few feet to a safer nearby spot, ideally in the shade and away from foot traffic.
Give It Time
If you’re unsure whether the bird is being cared for, try observing the area quietly for about an hour. Parents usually return within that time to feed and check on their young. If no adult birds appear during that time and the chick still seems alone, that may be a sign that it needs help. At that point, it’s appropriate to reach out to a licensed wildlife rehabilitation center for advice on what to do next.
One of the most important things to remember is not to attempt to feed or give water to the bird yourself. Birds have extremely delicate respiratory systems and can easily aspirate liquids, which may lead to pneumonia or even death.
Who to Contact
Although the Ogden Nature Center cannot accept injured or orphaned birds, there are organizations nearby that can help. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources maintains a directory of licensed wildlife rehabilitators throughout the state. We also recommend contacting the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Northern Utah or the Wildlife Center of Salt Lake, both of which have provided excellent care and support for injured birds in our region.
