Recovery and Release

This morning, I headed downstairs and heard a "Thump" as a Bird hit the Window. My slow morning movement picked up speed because I know that speed is the essence of success in such matters. Checking outside, I found a White Breasted Nuthatch with wings spread laying stunned on the deck. I carefully picked up the Little Feathered One.

Occasionally, we have a Songbird hit the Window. Richard, the Ornithologist, has taught us about the Behavior of the Little Birds and some Tricks that protect and aid those little Birds we love so much.

1: We do know that Songbirds are easily startled: by a Hawk coming through also looking for a Meal, by the Wind, by who knows what. That's just normal.

2: While our Windows enable us to see the Birds and see Nature all around us, they are a hazard to the Birds. For this reason, our closest Birdfeeder is 30 feet from the House. This placement gives them protection for those * moments when quick flights and fast moves are essential.

3: If they hit the window and fall to the ground, we pick them up (gently holding their wings close to their bodies), bring them inside, and place them in a large brown bag with the top closed. The bag gives them a darkened space to rest and recover.

4: Time is of the essence. We do have Cats and they also are never known to miss a meal, especially an easy one. Also Birds seem to be most prone to hit the Window during Migration Seasons (Spring and Fall)and in the Winter especially on Blustery Days. Today is one of the latter. Usually, the temperatures during these times are quite cool, even cold. The Birds lose body heat very quickly. Bringing them inside the warm house gives them the Respite they need.

5: Usually within about 20 minutes, we hear a rustling in the bag. The Little Feathered One is ready to be released.

My mission was successful today. If you noted the * above in the entry marked 2, that is precisely the moment of my editing when the White Breasted Nuthatch became very active in the Bag. At that point, the Bird, Bag, and I headed outside. I opened the Bag, the Nuthatch looked out and was gone, heading back to the Trees and Breakfast at the Birdfeeder.

You will note the closing photo is one of our Dear Cat Max who was checking out the doin's after the excitement of the Morning. I am sure he is wondering how he could have missed that. And yes, it is important to place that Bag where you can watch both it and your Cats, if you have any.

Rachel noted the Bag was a True Value. And I hope this entry is too. At least it was to the Nuthatch.