a cute little bird

When baby birds fall from the nest early more than likely they don't make it. They still need their mothers help with nourishment and her guidance on learning to fly. Their wings are underdeveloped and their little eyes haven't been open long enough to see the dangers around them. Who knows how they fall from the nest...do they get too close to the edge? Did the wind blow too hard that day? Are they sick? Or do they just want to try it on their own?

We spotted one such baby bird this summer. It was hopping around the yard and making little bird noises. Rachel thought we should put it in a safer spot, since this area of the yard is where the bobcats hung out. Cats and birds usually don't get along too well. So, with just a little quick action on Rachel's part, she scooped the little guy up. I will mention here that normally I suggest we leave little things like this be so as not to "mess with nature". However, after watching the little bird for awhile, we could tell it was injured and didn't look so good.

So, with a glove to protect the bird and keep her hands clean, she held the little thing for a bit.
It seemed content to take a little rest on her gloved hand. Hello baby birdy. Was it wondering...where is my Momma?
It took one last little jump and landed on her knee. See it sitting there?
And then it hopped to the ground, flittered across the grass and ducked under some brush. Maybe the Momma bird was close by and would stay by her baby just a little longer.

We Mommas are like that. We like to nourish and guide our little birdies as long as we can.