Found a baby blackbird

[clair247]

Found a baby blackbird, not orphaned or abandoned. Put him out of cats and such reach and parents are still feeding him regularly. Am concerned that he is not flying though. He is quite big and flapping his wings and hopping about and able to grip too. How long does it take for it to fly?

[Cetti]

The problem is clair that all wildlife sites will tell you not to interfere..... but are we supposed to watch and do nothing while neighbouring cats have a field day with these babies? Our babies jumped out the nest 2 days ago and the parents will continue to feed them for about 3 weeks although they will be able to fly long before this.

The only thing you can really do is watch out for cats as the babes are very vulnerable on the ground, not helped as they will shout continually, but they are a lot tougher than they look.

[rio116]

Have a look at it to see if it still has its downy plumage,it needs all its adult flight feathers before it will fly properly. Sounds like he's nearly there if he's practicing his flapping! If you keep cats away he should be fine,just keep a close eye but if he's safe and his parents are looking after him then leave nature be.

[flaming]

The trouble with taking too concerned an interest is that the parents can suddenly turn against their nest and/or off-spring, I have heard.  Please be careful not too touch as although some of us are well-meaning the birds don't know that.  Well, you've already touched, obviously, but try watching from a short distance now and only take action if it is really necessary.  It is extremely difficult for us to stay  back .... still,  good that you are worried, Clair, and feel protective.  We need birdsong!  I believe blackbirds are among those who keep building their annual nests in the same or nearby place if it's a good billet, so keep a look out next year.