AssetID: 55762686
Headline: The real-life Angry Birds: Restless wrens keep RSPCA carers up all night
Caption: BY MARK WORGAN RSPCA staff have been playing a real-life version of the video game Angry Birds - by feeding a clutch of five wren chicks who have been demanding snacks every 15 minutes. Wildlife care assistants at the RSPCA’s West Hatch Wildlife Centre, in Taunton, Somerset, are taking it in turns to care for the five fledgling Wrens from dawn to dusk. Harvey Bryant, from the centre, said: “The chicks needed to be tweezer fed every 15 minutes from dawn until dusk initially, and then every 30 minutes for around two weeks after they began pecking at food themselves. “We’re now gradually weaning them off tweezer feeds as they become more independent. It’s a labour of love and the days can be very long but, to see them grow into fit, healthy and strong birds who can be released back into the wild makes it all worth it.” The chicks came into the charity’s care in June after being rescued by a member of the public when their mother was killed by a cat. They are just some of the 255 wild animals currently being cared for by the team at West Hatch. The RSPCA expects to take in around 700 baby birds this month alone - the busiest for baby bird admissions. But the organisation is keen to remind well-meaning members of the public that not all baby birds need help. RSPCA wildlife expert Rebecca Machin said: “It’s really important to take a moment to check whether a baby bird actually needs help before scooping them up and rushing them to the nearest vet or wildlife centre. “Finding a feathered baby bird out of the nest is completely normal and - unless they’re sick or injured - it’s in their best interest to leave them be, and keep any pets well away. The parents are often nearby, keeping a close watch. “If you do find a baby bird out of their nest, and you’re worried, the best thing to do is to follow advice on our website.”
Keywords: birds,wrens,nature,rspca,photo,video,feature
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