Expert: Roger Lederer - 7/18/2008

Question
My husband found a junior robin. It was wrapped up in string, His legs were tied together and there was string on its left wing. He remover the string he has been with us for 5day he is still tipping on its left side. I don't know what is wrong with it. Its almost like his legs are spa zing the get real close and the lock on to each outer and then he falls over he can never get up he chirps until i help him back up. Me and my husband have got attached to it and we want to keep it unless he learns to fly. We talk him out every day for a few hours so he can hoop in the dirt and grass. What should i do about his legs. Also what should i be feeding him? I feed him white breed in water, blue berries, black grapes and bird seeds. Is that ok?

Answer
Sounds like a developmental problem or injury. You should contact a local wildlife rehab center and let them take care of him. It is illegal to keep a wild bird in captivity unless you have a permit. He will die on the diet you are feeding him so you need expert advice and help. You can go to www.ornithology.com/rehab.html for more information as well.