Help Me When I'm In Trouble...But, Please Don't Kidnap Me

Gazing out at a fresh blanket of winter white makes it somewhat difficult to imagine that spring flowers and baby birds are just a moment away. I‘ve already seen the daffodils peeking up through last year’s mulch, and watched the buds on the cherry trees start to swell in anticipation of warmer days to come. Although our winter birds still linger, and, will be here a bit longer, the arrival of large flocks of Robins is a sure sign that winter’s departure and spring’s much longed for arrival cannot be far away.

Our comical little year round resident’s, the Carolina Wrens, have already begun their exploration of nesting possibilities in our garage. It seems a favorite spot for them, in spite of the constant flurry of activity; dogs coming and going, up with the garage door, down with the garage door, start the tractor, back it out, bring it in, grab some tools, and so it goes… from before dawn until late in the evening. Still…these amazing, winged creatures, continue to nest, raise there families, and fledge their young….adapting to this space we both share. It’s certainly not the preferred location, and we do our best to discourage new nest building, but, once it’s there and filled with eggs or babies, we are bound by our love of, and, respect for nature to do what we are able to help ensure the environment they have chosen, remains as safe and non threatening as possible. So…for the time being, the garage door remains open, the tractor is parked outside, and, the dogs only go out on leash…we, however, will continue to move freely through this shared space. Our little visitors, not bothered by our presence, sit watchful as we come and go, waiting for the next offering of a few choice morsels.

Every year, thousands of baby birds and animals are kidnapped by well meaning individuals who believe them to be orphaned or in danger. The reality is that many are just exploring their world and learning the lessons and behavior they will need to survive and thrive in their natural environment. Knowledge of bird and animal behaviors is the key to truly helping these wild babies. Humans without the proper training should never try to raise baby songbirds or animals. Many that are taken from the wild do not survive because each species has specific dietary needs and learns it normal behavior from members of its own kind. Imagine being taken from the world you are learning to live in by some "thing" who cannot communicate with you, doesn't know what to feed you and you view as a predator. Pretty scary, by anyone’s standards. The truth is birds and animals can die from stress alone.

Working to thoughtfully fashion safe neighborhood habitats, learning and teaching others about the many birds, mammals, and reptiles that live within our reach, and speaking out on their behalf seems more a privilege than an obligation. The opportunities to help are endless, and the need far greater than many might imagine. Sharing knowledge, challenging others to consider the consequences of their actions, or lack thereof, and taking action when others might look away, is truly the responsibility of those who would claim a bond with the wild world.

Spring is coming, baby birds and baby animals are on their way. Will they need our help? Maybe…maybe not. The trick… as I am learning… is to know the difference between when help is needed, and when it’s simply time to walk away. A baby bird or animal allowed to explore his natural world, uninterrupted by human intervention, will be taught by parents, siblings and others of his own species the lessons and skills needed, not only to survive, but, thrive in their world as nature intended. Do we help when babies (and adults for that matter) are threatened by domestic animals or predator species or humans…of course, should we try and put tiny babies back into nests….of course. There are many ways that each of us can make a difference in the outcome of a baby’s life. It just takes knowledge, caring and observation, the tools you will need to make the right call…help or walk away.

As spring quickly approaches and we share the wait, for daffodils, new arrivals and warmer breezes, I encourage you to reflect on the beauty of the coming season and consider what actions you might take to make our world, a kinder, safer, place for nature’s new ones. Your yard, your family, your neighborhood...what better place to start? I wish you Bluebirds, regards, Sandy

Within My Reach...I Am Responsible

I found this quote the other day …
”The great fault of all ethics hitherto has been that they believed themselves to have to deal only with the relations of man to man. In reality, however, the question is, what is his attitude to the world and all life that comes within his reach. A man is ethical only when life, as such, is sacred to him, that of plants and animals as that of his fellow men, and when he devotes himself helpfully to all life that is in need of help.” -Albert Schweitizer


I am more than confident that Mr. Schweitizer’s profound statement regarding man’s ethical behavior spoke directly to current dilemmas and global issues in the scientific community and the world of his day, and not my backyard. However, the spirit of his message remains true today, it continues to speak with great clarity to the needs of our planet, and our vanishing natural resources… just think…regard wildlife and their natural environment with the same fair, decent, principled behavior as you would the folks who live next door (wow, don’t disrespect their home and property)…what a concept… and help them when they are in need…outstanding, sounds a bit like don’t look the other way to me.


I have probably read this quote a hundred times since I first found it. At each reading I discover a new twist. At this writing, it’s not saying that we are responsible to save the entire planet on our own, it is simply offering up a challenge to help “those within our reach”, treat the wild things whose world we have taken over with the same respect, compassion and kindness as we would our human counterparts.

Thank God, there are many courageous individuals who practice such ethical behavior and work fearlessly to protect our wildlife and restore the environment. The reality is that each of us in our own way, in our own space, has the ability to make a positive impact…you know, it’s often called the right stuff. For those who do not care or continue to destroy…the shame is yours. I am stepping down now, from the soapbox, that is, but, only for a short while.

Now, with all that said…the weather here has turned cold very quickly this year, much colder than normal, and as I watch the seed and nuts disappear daily, I am reminded that it was I, who encouraged these creatures to share our habitat. By allowing them to come and go freely without fear, they have identified a safe haven, and in whatever wild way they are able, have given their trust in return. Without reservation…or exception, it is my responsibility to respect the bond that now exists, and do nothing to betray them. I was the one who offered food, water, shelter and safety from human harm. They did not ask, I invited them. I truly believe that somewhere deep within our being exists “our wildself”, the self that soars with eagles, or runs like the wind with wild horses. When we allow ourselves to live in harmony with nature, we are ensuring that our own spirit “live free”. Winter is coming, take care of those trusting ones that dare give you a glimpse into their world, provide for their needs, celebrate their visits, and let your “wild self” ride moonbeams to the stars.

I love this blog, my own personal soapbox venue, always available, ready to go at a moments notice, and for all intent and purpose, a platform for whatever strikes my fancy at the moment. Sometimes funny…sometimes serious…and then, other times, even worthwhile.

For within my reach, I am responsible. Regards, Sandy