How do I take care of baby parakeets?

Hi,

Babies with no feathers, a little fuzz, or pinfeathers need a soft, snug, cup-shaped nest of tissue in a small container—don’t use cotton, grass, or existing bird nests. The cup shape is necessary to support their bodies, sprawling may cause them injury. Plastic berry containers make an excellent framework for a tissue nest and are easily cleaned. Warm chilled nestlings in your hands, then put them in the tissue-nest container and put it on a heating pad (low setting) or hot water bottle or under a light. Never put them in direct sunlight—they may overheat. Put the nest (and pad) in a larger box for safety. Handle the birds only when necessary. They should always feel warm to the touch.

Feed bits of dog or cat kibble soaked in hot water (sugar-water for the first day or two) mixed with hard-boiled egg yolk and baby cereal. The bird may be dehydrated at first so it is important that the food be moist. White or wheat bread moistened with sugar-water can be used as an emergency diet for a few feedings only. Put food in the back of the nestling’s mouth when it gapes. Feed them every 30 to 60 minutes during daylight hours. Initial feedings with very weak birds can be given every 15 minutes, tapering off as the bird regains its strength. Give each bird a few pieces per feeding. Do not put liquids in nestlings’ mouths.

Good luck.