Providing Heat to Orphaned Birds

[AZWhitefeather]

In conjunction with the 'Basic Steps to Saving the Life of a Pigeon or Dove,
http://www.pigeons.biz/forums/showthread.php?t=8822
this thread contains 'heat providing tips' specifically focusing on orphaned birds.

* It is essential that orphaned birds be kept warm on a towel lined heating pad, set on low.

* Since baby birds have difficulty regulating their body temperature, wrapping them in a towel or keeping them in a warm room is not enough. They need a heat source.
(If no heating pad is available, a hot water bottle may be used or fill an old sock about 2/3 full of rice, microwave for a few seconds, making sure it isn't too hot & place it around the bird.

* Do not turn the heating pad temperature too high thinking this will warm the baby bird faster. Low setting is recommended. Birds need to be warmed gradually until their body temperature has been maintained.

* Do not put a baby bird in the sun to warm him. He will quickly become dehydrated.

* Never attempt to feed a baby bird that is cold or in any type of respiratory distress. Baby birds must be warmed before they can digest any food.

* Keeping a baby bird warm is the most important step in saving his life.
* Many birds that appear near death have been revived after 20-30 minutes on a heating pad.

I hope this information will be of help, especially during baby bird season.

Cindy