Expert: Ben Mackenzie - 7/18/2011

Question
I rescued a baby Mourning dove from the mouth of a cat (not mine).  It was slightly injured, but didn't seem critical or in shock.  I placed it in a carrier with soft cloths and water in order to regroup and rest.  It survived the night and I have began feeding it softened and mushed up cat food.  I am going to the store tomorrow and will pick-up some baby bird formula.  It looks to have a semi-full set of feathers with little "pin" feathers sticking out here and there.  It is moving around well and will even perch on my hand by itself.  I am feeding it from a small kitten bottle with the nipple cut off.  It sticks its beak in and seems to be eating some.  I am careful not to let it get any up its nose.  I am not familiar with how to feel a full or empty gullet. It seems to be pooping without any problems.  How many times should I be feeding it?  When will I know it is ready to be released back into the wild, and survive on its own? Do I need to worry about getting any diseases or mites from handling it? I do wash my hands after each handling, but is this enough?  Thanks for any help and information.  I love all animals, but I have very limited experience with birds.

Answer
So far you seem to be doing just fine with the bird. Add a drop of vitamin D to its food as well. Just feed it until it doesn't want to feed anymore. When it starts to fly, release it. The more dependent it gets on you the less likely it will survive in the wild. You don't need to worry about any diseases or mites but washing your hands before and after feeding is a good idea.Keep up the good work. You may also contact your local wildlife rehab center for advice and look at www.ornithology.com/rehab.html for links to more advice.