I've been watching a bird nest for awhile now. Today, I found a nestling

[Coventina]

on the ground underneath it.

This is at my school, I'm working today.

Nest is built on the building, about 12 feet up.

I was able to borrow a ladder from the Theatre department, who are working today.

Returned nestling to the nest.

There are 4 of them, I discovered. I had thought there were 3!

They should be ready to fly in a few more days. I think this little guy was just a little premature.

I love nature!!

[Laffy Kat]

1. Awww. You're a nice person, Coventina.

[Ziggysmom]

2. You saved the little nestling's life. Everyone needs a helping hand now and then. The universe

will repay you for your kindness.

[targetpractice]

3. Excellent for you to do that!

My dog found a mourning dove nestling on the lawn once (in TX). Borrowed a ladder from my Trumpist neighbor and put it back in the tree while the parents watched me... They returned to the nest and it flew away within a couple of weeks.

It's a myth that if you touch the chicks, that their parents will reject them. Birds can't smell.

Oh BTW, my neighbor took that as a bonding experience and showed up at my back yard the next day drunk and wanted to show me his AR-15. Awful scary experience, but at least I saved the little dove.

[Ptah]

4. It's a myth that birds can't smell.

[Coventina]

6. It depends on the species. Vultures and other carrion birds have excellent smellers.

Most birds you will find in your yards will not be "chased away" by human scent, though.

[targetpractice]

7. You are right... Shouldn't have repeated that without confirming.

Sorry for the misinfo... Unintentional.

I've read wildlife rescuers say this, and almost always advise to put the bird back in the nest or construct a nest and put the bird back.. The second part seems true... The parents will return.

[Coventina]

5. If my dog (RIP) had found a bird he would instantly kill it.

I didn't like that about him, but he was born feral and never overcame his prey drive.

I miss him a lot, but I don't miss that aspect....

Glad you were able to save a life. Sorry it brought unwelcome repercussions, though.