Page 26 - Hand rearing birds second

Baby Bird Basics 7

Figure 1.3 Nest substitute examples, clockwise from
upper left: Knit nest with tall roof to simulate a nest cavity,
ceramic dish nest, berry basket nest, knit nest, all have
rolled tissue bedding inserts to provide substrate for toes
to grip. Source: photo courtesy of Guthrum Purdin.

surfaces. Chicks should be placed in an appropriately sized nest to support their body with the
head slightly elevated and the legs folded beneath the body. Weak precocial chicks can also benefit
from the comfort of a nest support until stronger. Altricial hatchling or nestling age chicks in
poorly‐shaped nests may seem restless and continually try to get out of the nest. Re‐evaluate the
nest replacement if this occurs. Some chicks may be more content with a soft tissue or light piece
of cloth draped over the top of the nest to simulate parental brooding. Cavity nesting species may
be more comfortable in dim lighting.
Precocial chicks are very stressed by being alone and may be comforted by the addition of a clean
undyed feather duster and small mirror to simulate companionship. However, avoid allowing the
chick to spend all its time gazing into the mirror, rather than eating and drinking. Remove the mir-
ror if it is preventing normal activities. Be sure the mirror and other cage furnishings are secured
to prevent hazards to chicks. Some waterbird chicks, such as grebes and loons, are physiologically
unable to stand due to the anatomy of their legs; these species need to be placed on ample soft bed-
ding to prevent pressure sores on their legs or keels.
Monitor chicks frequently for signs of discomfort. Normal avian body temperature is approxi-
mately 104–108 °F (40–42 °C), but this varies by species and the stress of handling and restraint.
It is not practical to measure the temperature of small‐bodied birds, but each chick should
always feel warm to a warmed human hand; cloacal temperature can be measured in larger
chicks but care must be taken to not cause injury with the thermometer. Cold chicks are often
lethargic and poorly responsive. Nest‐bound chicks that are too hot may hang their heads over
the edge of nests, lay with their necks stretched out, hold their wings away from their body, or
keep their mouths open although not gaping or begging. Hot chicks that are able to stand and
ambulate will attempt to move away from the heat source or may pant or gular flutter. Overheated
birds are likely to become lethargic and dehydrated if the overheating is allowed to persist, and
may cease producing droppings. Dehydrated chicks may feel hot or too firm to the touch; a nor-
mally hydrated chick’s body feels fleshy and soft. Dehydrated chicks may have wrinkled skin
over the abdomen, reduced skin elasticity, sunken eyes, slow eyelid responsiveness, stringy
saliva, and dry mucous membranes.