Rescued Baby Pigeon in Chicago

[patricktross]

I found a baby pigeon (appears to be about 2 weeks old from other pictures I see on web) under the railway overpass near the train station where I get off/ on the commuter train each day in Chicago.

It appears that the pigeon may have fell out of his nest / nesting area which was about 20 ft above. The little pigeon was living on a paper fast food bag on the sidewalk when I found him. Myself and other commuters were attempting to feed him food. I was affraid that the someone would accidently run over the piegeon with a bike or step on him if he remained on the sidewalk.

I made an attempt to take the pigeon to the 24 hour vet clinic I was told they didn't have a vet that can see birds. I was provided with the phone # for another vet clinic. The staff member at that clinic said I should return the bird to the location I found him / her as soon as possible. I returned the pigeon to the area I found him on a high spot above the sidewalk under the train overpass.

I have been happy to see the other pigeons have been visiting the baby and the bird appears to be OK.

I have been checking on the pigeon each day on my way to/from work, he seems to be fine although does not appear to move much, maybe less than a foot or so is this common?. I am someone curious if he could be injured? Was it appropriate to put the pigeon up on a higher spot? I wouldn't want him to be injured from a fall? is there any additional care I can provide (leave food, build a nest etc.?)

Any information would be beneficial to help me take care of my new friend.

Thank You, Patrick Ross, Chicago

[kristy]

I know I can't stand waiting for a reply, so I'll tell you what I know

I don't think a 2 week old pigeon can feed itself, and it would need to either be fed by its parents or hand fed. I also think a 2 week old pigeon needs it's parents to sit on it or it will freeze to death as it doesn't have it's feathers fully in yet.

This is from my experience... so I'm not 100% sure, but I think that pigeon won't survive by himself. I'm sure one of the more knowledgable board members will arrive soon and give you more info

[Nooti]

Kristy and Patrick
A two week old baby does not need heat. It is self thermoregualting. Also at that age parents will recognise their babies call and go feed it anyway even if it has moved from the nest spot. I see this regularly in my loft.
The best way to check is to take a look and see if the crop is full. If it is you know the parents are feeding it. If not, then it needs human help.

[patricktross]

Thank you for your help.

The baby Piegon is doing well almost a week after I found him / her.

The pigeon is attempting to fly and move. In fact he left the high spot where I left the pigeon. He moved to a sheltered area between the train tracks and the building.

I stop by and check on him each day, the mother pigeon seems to be taking good care of her baby, he looks well fed.

Best Regards,
Patrick

[TAWhatley]

Thanks for the update Patrick. It's good to know that the little one is doing well and being looked after by the parents.

Terry Whatley

[AZWhitefeather]

Hello Patrick & Welcome to Pigeons.com,
Thank you so very much for being so attentive to this little pij.
As long as Mom or Dad is tending to it, things should turn out OK.
Please do keep us posted on how things are going.
Cindy

[Nooti]

I love good news! :-)