hummingbird on the ground.

Finding a baby hummingbird on the ground is always an emergency.  They die quickly from the cold, heat or starvation. If you have any doubts about how to handle this situation, call NAR at 831-462-0726.

1. If the hummingbird has fallen out of the nest, GENTLY pick it up (including any debris, nesting material or other substance it’s sitting on because their delicate toes automatically lock when perched and are sometimes accidentally torn off when they’re picked up) and examine it for injuries.

2. If you see no injuries, carefully place it back in the nest.

3. Keep watch to ensure that the female continues to feed her young. It may take anywhere from 10 to 90 minutes for the mother to return.

4. If you’re unable to find the nest, or if the mother does not return, line a plastic cup or small box with tissue, and carefully place the bird into the container. Be sure the container or box is ventilated.

5. Keeping the bird warm is critical, so place the container on a warm towel heated for no more than 30 seconds in a microwave oven, hot water bottle, or heating pad set on low.

6. Immediately bring the hummingbird to Native Animal Rescue by following the directions below.