How do you take care of a baby sparrow (a fledgling) ?

Question

I found a baby sparrow in my backyard. The dog was playing with it and it looks a bit mangled. It has a curvy bone sort of protruding from its chest area. The bird can still move around but it cannot fly yet. I've given it water already but it hasn't eaten yet. Any food suggestions and care tips? Preferably stuff I already have at home.

By the way, there's no wildlife rescue organization around where I live so there's no choice -- I have to be the one to take care of the bird. Any help would be much appreciated :)

Answer 1

I'm sorry to have to say this but the bird will more than likely not survive due to it's injury, however worms are a normal thing for birds to eat also bugs any protein will help the poor little thing.

Answer 2

You first need to decide if this bird was injured by your dog..if so..it needs medical attention at a rehab.  If it is not injured and if the bird is fully feathered, it is most likely a fledgling and has left the nest on it's own and it's parents are caring for it. It is normal for birds to leave the nest before they can fly.   You need to replace it where you found it..preferably in a scrub or tree so it is relatively safe from predators (and keep you dog away from this area), and the parents should come back to feed it.  If it is unfeathered...then look for a nest and if you can find it...replace it into the nest.  Do not worry about your scent being on the chick..birds have a very poorly developed sense of smell and will NOT reject a baby that has been touched.  If you cannot find a nest, get the bird to a local wildlife rehab for it's best chance of survival.  Also, keep in mind, it is illegal for you to try and raise this bird on your own.  Look for a rehab here:

http://www.tc.umn.edu/~devo0028/contactA...

This site has listings all over the US..I'm sure you can find someone close to you if needed.

Answer 3

http://www.starlingtalk.com/babycare.htm

Good luck.