How do I teach a wild baby bird to survive on his own?

[FrostRanger]

I found a mockingbird fledgling it can not fly yet and we have a lot of cats around, so I took him in. I'm not sure i did the right thing my plan was to let it learn to fly then release him. Everytime he sees me he opens its mouth to feed him i have had him for 4 days and he still hops around with little flying. I don't think he has his flight feathers yet. Any advise would be helpful Thank you

Usually the parents are nearby watching and tending to them as needed, I would keep the cats away while it finds its wings

 

[BigBlueHen53]

I think it's illegal to keep a songbird. Call your local wildlife association, they should send someone to come get it that knows what to do.

 

[BigBlueHen53]

If you think you've found an orphaned or injured wild animal, what should you do? We at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service know that it’s natural to want to help. Here are a few things you should know to keep the animal safe and avoid breaking the law.

Most states require permits or licenses, training and approved facilities to rehabilitate wildlife and some species, including most birds, require federal permits as well. For the safety of the animal, yourself and your family, always call a professional.

 

[Bones13]

I think it's illegal to keep a songbird. Call your local wildlife association, they should send someone to come get it that knows what to do.

I called the wildlife people about a Starling and they told me they would humanely destroy him. Nope I've been taking care of him for almost 3 weeks and hope to release him this fall.

 

[cassie]

Can you call a rehabber?

Wait. Keep caring for him. When he is ready to fly you will know. When my baby birds were ready to fly I would hang their cage in a tree. After a few days I would open the door so they could leave. I kept food and water in the cage. Some of them would return to the cage for several days.

 

[BigBlueHen53]

I called the wildlife people about a Starling and they told me they would humanely destroy him. Nope I've been taking care of him for almost 3 weeks and hope to release him this fall.

Unfortunately, starlings are pretty much considered pests. I believe this is why they wouldn't help you. I'm glad the bird is thriving under your care.

 

[cassie]

I called the wildlife people about a Starling and they told me they would humanely destroy him. Nope I've been taking care of him for almost 3 weeks and hope to release him this fall.

Starlings make good pets.