Tips for releasing rehabed birds

[Michael Sanford ~ OK]

We did the best we could, guys. We at least gave them a fighting chance. They sure didn't stand a chance huddled in our bushes, under our trees, or just lying out in the yard without the ability to fly. Looking back on it, I really don't think we could have done much differently. Misting the housing might of helped, maybe not. Offering supplemental crickets and mealworms might of helped, maybe not. I just look at it as Mother Nature kicked us in the teeth and we stood in there and took her best punches. I still probably fledged 150+ martins even with all of my losses and rehab birds. They'll be back next March and we'll give it heck just like we do every season. This season just sucked.