AT this time of the year, the RSPB would like everyone to stop and think before they pick that little baby bird off the ground,

Last year the RSPB received about 200 calls over the spring and summer from people who, having rescued birds, didn't know how to look after them.

While it is a thoughtful and caring gesture on many people's part to try and look after a chick which may have fallen out of its nest, the truth is that nine times out of ten, their parents are around and are waiting for you to go away so they can tend to their chick.

If you see a chick, which isn't in immediate danger, leave it alone.

The brutal truth is that you are not a bird and won't know how to look after it. More often than not, "rescued" birds will have low survival rates and it can be more heartbreaking than exhilarating.

The RSPB would also like to remind the public that disturbing a bird's nest is a criminal offence while it is in use or being built. During the breeding season (March to August inclusive), removing nests from roof spaces or the side of a house is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, unless there is an overriding health and safety reason, and can attract fines of up to £6,000. For details visit www.rspb.org.uk or call 01767 680551.

Hilary Wilkinson

RSPB South West England Regional Office, Keble House

Southernhay Gardens

Exeter