A couple of days ago while on my morning walk with the dogs through the woods I heard a lot of panicked cawing from a large tree. As I have a handicapped crow, I knew immediately (as you do!) that it was an alarm call from a hooded crow and I scanned the tree to try and see the bird. I spotted it high up, getting very agitated. I guessed there must be something there so looked around and spotted a fledgling crow, in good condition but quite young, hopping about in the undergrowth. I called the dogs off and left it there. But my mind was racing. Was this a potential friend for my crow? Was it in danger? Should I rescue it?
I got home, Googled the subject and found an interesting article from the RSPB (Royal Soceity for the Protection of Birds)in the UK. It said that at this time of year there are lots of fledglings around on the ground – it's statistically unsurprising that there are unsuccessful flight attempts, given the number of birds around – and they are often there for up to a week, hidden from view, perfectly OK and being fed and kept an eye on by their parents, before they gather strength to fly away. Those that don't are food for predators, maintaining nature's cycle. In other words, unless the bird is clearly injured or the parents are dead, leave well alone.
I found this reassuring, if a little harsh. But I resisted my natural urge to help and I haven't seen the little chap since, so am hoping it has taken to the skies rather than been dinner for a larger animal.