Commonly asked questions about wild birds
As a local bird conservation organization, caring and concerned community members often reach out to us to learn more about our fine feathered friends. From mysterious bird disappearances and fascinating behaviors to how to help birds during tough times, we’ve heard an incredible variety of interesting questions and observations. Below are some recent, commonly-asked questions from bird lovers.
As a reminder, Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance is not licensed to provide care for injured, sick, or orphaned birds, as much as we would love to help. Please visit this page for more information on what to do and how to contact local wildlife rehabilitators.
In nature, it can be really special to encounter a bird like a Bald Eagle or a Great Horned Owl, but important to remembers that some species are sensitive to disturbance. How can I ethically observe sensitive species?
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We’ve partnered with the Dane County Humane Society’s Wildlife Center to identify a few common wild bird encounters: is it normal, or does the bird need help?
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Granivores, omnivores, frugivores, insectivores…birds that visit our neighborhoods have a variety of diets and preferences. But is it safe to put out jelly for fruit-eating birds?
Photo via Pixabay
When the temperature drops significantly like this, what’s the impact on birds? Read more here to learn how birds survive the cold, and figure out if they need help.
Photo by Kaitlin Svabek
Bird feeding is popular, so we get a lot of questions related to the ins and outs. Often, worries about feeders come up as temperatures get colder. Does leaving bird feeders out discourage migration?
Photo via Pixabay
American Robins are ubiquitous. During late summer into the early fall and winter, we start to get a trickle of questions: Where are the robins? A great question with a fascinating answer.
Photo via Pixabay
Remember: “If you find a nest, leaving it alone is best!” And required—it is against the law to remove or destroy a nest if there are eggs in it or if young birds depend upon it for survival, under the U.S. Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
Photo via Pixabay