Expert: Bluebird Bob Walshaw - 7/6/2011

Question
QUESTION: Five years ago barn swallows built a nest under our front porch. We have a huge window above our front door which allows us to observe their activities.

This year there is a baby left in the nest even though the others have fledged.  We have observed his parents trying to coax him to fly and feeding him, but they are gone longer and longer (just saw him get fed as I'm typing).  The baby appears upset:  chattering continually and pacing the nest.  I've never seen a baby afraid to fly before and am wondering if there is something physically wrong with it?  It does not flap its wings or "play fly" like I've seen other babies do.  This is the 3rd day or so.....if he is still not flying by the time the parents need to have their second brood what should I do?

I cannot take him in as I have a kitty who would view him as a tasty toy.  What kind of resources are available for baby birds with defective wings?  This is disconcerting to us and I am not convinced that there are resources available for his care in my area (Albuquerque, NM).  Thanks so much for your help!

ANSWER: Please do not do anything. Let nature take its course. A defective bird or animal should not join the gene pool. Mother Nature is a good mother, but she has to make some hard decisions. The rule of survival of the fittest is what keeps species strong.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: You are saying to allow the baby to die if he cannot fly?  Do you know about Barn Swallows-- the parents will be starting a second batch of babies soon.   

I'm not suggesting he needs to part of the "gene pool", but was asking if you know of an organization who would be willing to care for him--- like an indoor pet.  

If he can never fly he will be stuck in the nest up there-- it seems incredible harsh not to attempt a rescue--- surely there is a program somewhere for animals like this?

Answer
I am not being harsh, just realistic and pointing out what is best for the barnswallow species. Let nature take its course - the parents will work around it if they wish to start another family. There are rehabilitators but they only work with healthy birds. Also birds that feed on the wing like Barnswallows rarely survive as pets - and it would have to be fed insects every few minutes. Be patient and see what happens on nature's schedule.