Imprinting

Bert was raised by a well-meaning but unknowing human.  This caused a psychological problem known as "imprinting."  He permanently chooses the company of people over that of other ravens, looking for companionship, food, and fun amongst us people.    

His unnatural fearlessness combined with his mischievous ravenly behaviour put him in danger if he were released. He spends his time in pursuit of items of interest to him, including food, shiny objects, hats, or golf balls during golf tournaments. But there are those who don't appreciate his brazenness - especially since he bites hard when he can't get his way - and BB-guns and slingshots can be dangers to this too "friendly" raven.

Bert was captured after we received several calls about him on our helpline. He had been hanging around a local high school, breaking leads off children's pencils, stealing lunches, and being a general nuisance. High school kids were throwing rocks at him, and a teacher finally had enough when Bert walked into a classroom and flew off with her car keys.

He now earns his living as an animal ambassador, visiting schools and museums to participate in wildlife demonstrations. He has been taught to show to others what ravens do - at the appropriate moment. Though he has the best possible environment, he will forever miss soaring high above trees, building a nest on a rocky cliff, and raising another generation of ravens.

Though we always try to return fallen nestlings to their nests and the care of their parents, sometimes this is not possible.  Nests might be impossible to locate, too high to reach, or destroyed. Parent birds might have been killed.  

 Accurate identification of the bird is important before attempting to feed it anything.  Not all birds eats seeds, or worms, and what is good for one baby bird might kill another.   

The proper way to raise such youngsters is with a group of their own kind. Living with others of its species, exposing them to their natural foods, and limited human contact give them their best chance at survival in the wild.

You should not attempt to raise a baby bird yourself. If you find a nestling, please call the Network's helpline at (805) 966-9005. If you live outside Santa Barbara County, click here to find an organization near you.