We’re incredibly fortunate to have Gen from Flag Farm right around the corner in Salt Rock — a true gem in our community. Ballito and its surrounds are all the richer for her presence and passion.
We recently had to call upon Gen when we found a baby Loeri bird in the garden here at Fairview that had blown out of a nest when we had some heavy winds. It was rescued and taken to Flag Animal Farm. Gen has kindly given us some do’s and don’ts when rescuing a bird so that you will know exactly what to do and what not to do if you find a bird in your garden that is injured or has fallen out of a nest.Â
These are the steps Gen advised us to follow:
- Look for predators and if the bird is injured -if any are around then pick the bird up (cat, dog etc).
- If there are no predators or the bird is not injured – confirm if the bird is fully feathered – if yes then leave it alone, the mother will ground feed for around 3/4 days before it flies off, like learning to ride a bike – yay.
- If it is not fully feathered then pick it up and warm it in your hand – remember they can’t generate their own body heat.
- Place it into a box and deliver it to Flag Farm asap.Â
- Don’t give them water or food.Â
- You can’t even give a drop of water to a bird as it will go into their lungs.
- Any human cereal like Future life or Pronutro is deadly for wildlife.
- Best to warm and bring the bird to Flag Animal Farm or after hours to Springvale Country Estate.
Keep these tips in mind for the next time a feathered friend finds itself in a spot of bother in your garden!
