Baby birds are very vulnerable because they can not fly or defend themselves. They also depend on their parents to feed and protect them. Sometimes predators attack their nests during the absence of their parents. At this time, baby birds can not fight with predators and can be killed easily. So how can you prevent such a situation? In the previous article, we discussed how mother birds protect their babies from predators. Now in this article, we will discuss, how can you protect baby birds in a nest from predators. So, let’s get started.
Why do predators attack baby birds?
- Predators like cats, dogs, foxes, owls, etc., hunt for food. When they find easy prey, they start hunting. And when they find vulnerable prey, they take advantage of that prey. For example, if there is a cat in your house, it may try to catch mice. If it sees a mouse hole, it may enter that hole. But if it finds a baby bird in its nest, it may eat it up. This is why baby birds are attacked by predators.
- Some predators can smell the scent of eggs. After finding out that there is a nest nearby, they come near and sniff around. If they detect any egg scent, they may eat it up.
- Baby birds may fall down from their nests due to some reasons. When they do so, they may get hurt. At this point, predators may come and eat them up.
- Sometimes, babies may fall off the nest when they are still small. At this stage, they may not have developed enough wings to fly. Their parent birds may leave them alone at this point. At this moment, predators may come and kill them.
- Sometimes, predators may see a baby bird flying away from its nest. At this point, they may think that the baby bird has been left behind. So they may go after it.
- Sometimes, predators may hear the sound of a baby bird crying. They may think that the baby is injured and needs help. So they may come and eat it up.
how can I Protect the baby birds in a nest from predators? some tips-
1. Netting
Netting is one of the best ways to keep away predators. It is easy to use and can help save baby birds. You just need to make a net out of clothes like cotton or nylon. Cut the cloth into pieces according to the size of your nest. Then tie all the pieces together using string. After that, place the net over the nest. The predator won’t be able to enter the nest as long as it cannot pass through the net.
2. Scarecrow
Scarecrows are another useful tool for protecting baby birds. Make a scarecrow by cutting some sticks or branches and then placing them around the nest. This way, the predator will think that there are many baby birds in the nest and will leave the nest alone.
3. Nest Boxes
Nestboxes are also good tools for protecting baby birds. These are small cages made of wood that have holes at both ends. Place these boxes near the nest so that predators can see them but can’t reach them inside.
4. Make sure that your house is safe for baby birds
Before starting anything else, make sure that your house is free from any danger. It should have no open window, loose door, or broken glass. Also, keep all doors closed and windows shut. If there is any danger inside your home, then call an expert immediately.
5. Keep the birdbath clean
Birdbaths are important for baby birds as it provides water for drinking and bathing. But if the birdbath is dirty, then it may become dangerous for babies. Cleaning the birdbath regularly helps in keeping the water fresh and clean. You can use soap mixed with warm water to wash the birdbath.
6. Make an animal decoy
Animal decoys are great tools for attracting animals away from the nest. You can buy these online or even make your own. All you need is a stuffed toy and some feathers. Tie the feathers to the toy and place it near the nest. The predator will come close to check what is happening. As soon as it sees the toy, it will move away from the nest.
7. Use insecticide spray
Insecticides are very effective when used properly. Spray the area where the nest is located with insecticide spray. This way, insects will die, and the smell of dead insects will attract other animals away from the nest site.
8. Use a plastic mesh cover
Plastic mesh covers are also effective in protecting baby birds from predators. You need to place this cover on top of the nest. When the baby birds hatch, they will climb through the mesh cover and fly away.
9. Cover the nest with leaves
Leaves are also very useful in protecting baby birds from being eaten by predators. Just put a few leaves over the nest. This way, the predator will not be able to get access to the nest.
What happens if my baby birds don’t survive?
There are chances that your baby birds will not survive. Sometimes, the parents abandon their eggs. In such cases, the baby birds will starve to death.
Can a baby bird detect the presence of predators?
Yes! A baby bird has the ability to sense danger and protect itself from predators. It does this by making loud noises. For example, a baby crow makes a noise similar to “krrr-kr-kr-kr-k.
Can insects kill the baby bird?
No! Baby birds cannot be killed by insects. However, insects do play a role in killing baby birds. They eat the eggshells and sometimes the chicks too.
How long does it take for baby birds to grow up?
Baby birds usually grow up within two weeks. After this period, they will learn how to feed themselves and leave the nest.
Final thought:
Baby birds are very cute and adorable creatures. They are so beautiful that we want them to stay alive. However, we must understand that they are vulnerable to dangers like predators and insects. So, we should try our best to protect them from these threats. In this article, we discussed different ways to protect baby birds from predators. Hope it will be helpful for you to protect your own baby birds.
