Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there, but especially the ones who raised this robin and this house finch so magnificently, but then lost them for reasons unknown. We’re doing our best to fill in for their missing parents, who are no doubt busy raising others from the nest. If you find a scruffy-looking young bird who is alert and standing or hopping, that bird is probably a fledgling (a bird who has just left the nest) and is likely not in need of help. Being on the ground is normal for the first few days out of the nest. A fledgling's parents will be nearby and foraging to feed their child. If you’re not sure, observe from a distance. Usually a parent will quickly show up with food for the little one. If the bird is injured or has very few feathers (a nestling), that’s when you can jump in to rescue. But please ask a wildlife rehabber if you’re not sure. And never give food or water to a rescued bird. We know it’s tempting, but this one act can be so harmful. Mothers everywhere, we salute you! 📷:  @tristanahigg