Baby birds on the ground are a common sight in late spring and early summer. Often, these birds do not need care, as their parents will soon return for them. Sometimes baby birds are orphaned and do need human help to improve their chances of survival.
Young baby birds should not receive water or very wet food. According to the Marathon Wild Bird Center, very wet food can cause them to choke and die. Choose moist foods appropriate to the species, which will provide enough water for the bird to survive.
If at all possible, return baby birds to their nests and allow their parents to feed them. Human-provided foods are often nutritionally inadequate. Many baby birds do well on puppy chow at a moist consistency, as well as finely chopped vegetables and small insects. Doves and pigeons should receive a parrot weaning formula.
Most baby birds require frequent feeding -- as often as every half hour to an hour in some cases. Feeding them too infrequently may cause them to starve and die. If possible, feed baby birds only as long as it takes to get them to a qualified rehabilitator, who can provide the intensive care they need.