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.

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How do I handle a bird nest in an inconvenient spot?
How do I handle a bird nest in an inconvenient spot?

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

How do I ethically observe eagles, owls, or other sensitive species?
How do I ethically observe eagles, owls, or other sensitive species?

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?

Photo via Pixabay

"Is that bird okay?!": A few common scenarios
"Is that bird okay?!": A few common scenarios

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?

Photo via Pixabay

Should I put out jelly for birds?
Should I put out jelly for birds?

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

How do birds handle severe cold and snow?
How do birds handle severe cold and snow?

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

Do bird feeders discourage migration?
Do bird feeders discourage migration?

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

Where have the robins gone?
Where have the robins gone?

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