How To Re-Nest Baby Birds or Make A Replacement Nest
Finding baby birds on the ground can be alarming—but in many cases, they don’t need to be rescued. If the babies are nestlings (eyes closed or only partially open, little to no feathers), the best help is often to put them back in a nest so their parents can continue caring for them.
Contrary to a common myth, parent birds will not abandon their babies if they’ve been touched by humans.
First Confirm Re-Nesting Is Appropriate
Re-nesting is the right choice if:
Find the Original Nest (If Possible)
Make a Temporary Replacement Nest
If the original nest can’t be found or is destroyed, you can make a simple substitute.
You’ll need:
Place the New Nest
Watch from a Distance
What NOT to Do
A Note About Fledglings
If the bird is:
Why Re-Nesting Matters
Parent birds are the best caregivers. Re-nesting allows babies to receive proper food, warmth, and protection—giving them the best chance to grow and thrive in the wild.
When in Doubt, Ask
If you’re unsure whether re-nesting is appropriate or need help identifying a bird’s age, get in touch with us by filling out our bird form before intervening.
Your thoughtful actions help keep wildlife wild—and safe.
Contrary to a common myth, parent birds will not abandon their babies if they’ve been touched by humans.
First Confirm Re-Nesting Is Appropriate
Re-nesting is the right choice if:
- The babies are uninjured
- They are nestlings, not fledglings
- You can locate the original nest, or safely place a replacement nearby
Find the Original Nest (If Possible)
- Look nearby in trees, shrubs, or on ledges
- If the nest has fallen but is intact, it can be placed back securely
- Use zip ties, twine, or wire to fasten the nest—never nails or staples into trees
Make a Temporary Replacement Nest
If the original nest can’t be found or is destroyed, you can make a simple substitute.
You’ll need:
- A small container (berry basket, plastic container, or small box)
- Drainage holes in the bottom
- Natural nesting material (dry grass, leaves, pine needles)
- A paper towel or soft liner shaped like a shallow bowl
Place the New Nest
- Secure the nest in a tree or shrub close to where the babies were found
- Place it off the ground, protected from sun, rain, and predators
- Gently place the babies inside, huddled together
Watch from a Distance
- Move away and observe quietly from afar
- Parents often return within 30–60 minutes
- Keep people and pets away during this time
What NOT to Do
- Do not feed or give water
- Do not bring the birds indoors
- Do not assume they are abandoned too quickly
- Do not attempt to raise them yourself
A Note About Fledglings
If the bird is:
- Fully feathered
- Hopping or fluttering on the ground
- Alert and vocal
Why Re-Nesting Matters
Parent birds are the best caregivers. Re-nesting allows babies to receive proper food, warmth, and protection—giving them the best chance to grow and thrive in the wild.
When in Doubt, Ask
If you’re unsure whether re-nesting is appropriate or need help identifying a bird’s age, get in touch with us by filling out our bird form before intervening.
Your thoughtful actions help keep wildlife wild—and safe.
Bidwell Wildlife Rehabilitation serves Butte, Colusa & Glenn counties in Northern CA. Here is a list of all licensed rehab facilities in California.
