In spring and early summer much of the baby wildlife in the UK is venturing out and exploring the world.

Fledgling birds in particular are just learning to fly. As part of this process they will often flutter out of the nest to the ground before regaining their strength and composure before taking off properly. Rest assured that Mum and Dad are never far away.

Each year around 20,000 of these healthy baby birds that have been found by members of the public are taken into vets and the RSPCA when in truth they should be left alone. If there is a worry of local cats then try and find a safe area to place the young bird, handling it as little as possible.

Whilst it might seem the sensible option to bring a baby bird into a veterinary surgery, unfortunately young fledglings are almost impossible to rehabilitate once they have been in human contact for a few hours and most end up being humanely euthanased.

This shouldn't discourage anyone from taking a bird with obvious external physical injuries to their local practice.

Further advice around this time of year is to take care when pruning trees and shrubs so you don't disturb fledglings in the nest.

Remember - if in doubt please leave wildlife alone.