I found a baby bird its a darker grey with white tips on feathers. still has the fuzz on the head?

Question

it has grey legs and the beak is mostly dark colored with the exception of the sides (lip looking part) that is yellowish. i live in central louisiana and found it last night hopping across the road. it cant fly although it tries, so i'm playing momma until it can. i was just hoping someone may know what kind of bird i have. thanks.

Answer 1

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 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...