How to wean a Starling?

How To Wean A Starling

Weaning is an essential process in the life of a starling that involves transitioning them from a diet of solely liquid food to a diet that includes solid foods. Understanding the weaning process and following appropriate steps is crucial for the health and development of the starling. This article aims to provide guidance on how to wean a starling effectively.

The purpose of weaning is to gradually introduce solid foods to the starling, encouraging them to become independent eaters and reducing their reliance on hand-feeding. Weaning helps facilitate the bird’s transition to adulthood and prepares them for a balanced and nutritious diet.

Knowing the right time to start weaning a starling is vital. This typically occurs when the bird is around 4-6 weeks old and is showing signs of increased activity and curiosity towards their surroundings. However, each starling may have slightly different readiness indicators, so it’s essential to observe their behavior closely.

Signs that a starling is ready for weaning include pecking at or showing interest in solid foods, exploring their environment more independently, and displaying natural feeding behaviors such as hopping around and picking at objects.

To wean a starling successfully, it is important to follow specific steps. These steps include introducing solid foods, gradually reducing hand-feeding, encouraging independent feeding, and monitoring progress to adjust the feeding schedule accordingly.

Tips for successful starling weaning include providing a proper diet that meets their nutritional needs, ensuring a comfortable environment that promotes exploration and natural feeding behaviors, and being patient and consistent throughout the process.

While weaning is generally a smooth process, there can be common challenges that may arise. Refusal to eat solid foods, weight loss or poor weight gain, and overfeeding or underfeeding are some of the challenges that bird owners may encounter. Understanding these challenges and seeking professional advice when needed is crucial for the well-being of the starling.

By following the guidelines and tips outlined in this article, you can navigate the weaning process successfully and help your starling develop into a healthy and independent bird.

Key takeaway:

  • Weaning a starling maximizes independence: The weaning process allows a starling to transition from a diet solely reliant on hand-feeding to independent feeding, promoting their self-sufficiency.
  • Timing is crucial in starling weaning: It is important to start the weaning process at the right time when the starling shows signs of readiness, such as interest in solid foods and exhibiting appropriate behavior for feeding.
  • Successful starling weaning requires a proper approach: By gradually introducing solid foods, reducing hand-feeding, encouraging independent feeding, and closely monitoring progress, the weaning process can be effectively managed with patience and consistency.
  • Providing a suitable diet is essential: Offering a proper diet during the weaning process ensures the starling receives the necessary nutrition for healthy growth and development.
  • A comfortable environment facilitates starling weaning: Creating a comfortable environment with appropriate temperature, lighting, and space can help alleviate stress and promote successful weaning.
  • Overfeeding or underfeeding should be avoided: It is crucial to provide the starling with the right amount of food to prevent weight issues, such as weight loss or poor weight gain.

Understanding the Weaning Process

Understanding the Weaning Process

  1. Observe the behavior of the starling: Pay attention to signs that the starling is ready to be weaned. This includes the bird starting to explore its surroundings and showing interest in solid food.
  2. Introduce solid food gradually: Start by offering small amounts of age-appropriate and nutritious food, such as softened pellets or seed mixes. Offer the food in a shallow dish or on a platform.
  3. Encourage self-feeding: Allow the starling to approach the food and experiment with different feeding methods. This helps the bird develop its eating skills and become more independent.
  4. Monitor progress: Keep a close eye on the starling’s eating habits and ensure that it is consuming enough food to meet its nutritional needs. Gradually decrease the amount of hand-feeding to encourage self-feeding.
  5. Provide a variety of foods: Introduce a wide range of fruits, vegetables, and proteins to the starling’s diet. This helps promote a healthy, balanced diet and exposes the bird to different flavors and textures.
  6. Gradually reduce hand-feeding sessions: As the starling becomes more proficient at self-feeding, gradually decrease the frequency of hand-feeding sessions. Monitor the bird’s weight and ensure it is maintaining a healthy appetite.
  7. Monitor the bird’s progress: Continue to observe the starling’s behavior and eating habits to ensure it is transitioning successfully. Be prepared to provide guidance and support as needed.

By following these steps and understanding the weaning process, you can help the starling develop the necessary skills to become independent and self-sufficient.

What is the Purpose of Weaning?

The purpose of weaning a starling is to transition the bird from a diet of solely hand-fed formula or crop milk to a diet of solid foods. Weaning is a crucial stage in a starling’s development as it teaches them to become independent and prepares them for life in the wild.

During the weaning process, starlings gradually learn to feed themselves and rely less on the assistance of their caregivers. This helps them develop the necessary skills to survive in their natural environment without human intervention. Weaning also encourages the starling to recognize and consume a wider variety of foods, which is essential for a balanced diet and overall health.

Weaning allows the starling’s digestive system to adapt to solid foods, enabling them to efficiently extract nutrients from their diet. It also promotes the development of their beak and jaw muscles, which are vital for feeding and other activities.

What is the Purpose of Weaning? It is important to note that the purpose of weaning is not to abruptly stop hand-feeding, but rather to gradually introduce solid foods while reducing reliance on hand-feeding. This gradual transition ensures that the starling is ready and capable of consuming solid foods while minimizing stress and potential nutritional deficiencies.

By understanding the purpose of weaning, starling caretakers can ensure a smoother and successful transition for their birds, leading to their overall well-being and future independence.

Remember to consult an avian veterinarian or bird expert for specific guidance during the weaning process for your starling.

When is the Right Time to Start Weaning a Starling?

Determining the right time to start weaning a starling is crucial. It is important to observe signs of independence and readiness for solid foods in the starling. Signs such as the ability to perch independently and explore its surroundings, as well as showing interest in the caregiver’s food, indicate that the starling is ready for weaning.

Typically, it is recommended to begin weaning a starling between 6 to 8 weeks of age. At this stage, they have developed both physically and mentally to be able to consume solid foods. Starting the weaning process during this period allows for a gradual transition from primarily hand-feeding to independent consumption of solid foods.

However, it is essential to note that each starling is unique, and the appropriate time to start weaning may vary. It is necessary to closely monitor the starling’s development and behavior to determine the right time for the weaning process.

By initiating weaning at the appropriate time, the starling can acquire the necessary skills for independent feeding and learn to eat solid foods. This transition is vital for their overall growth and development.

What are the Signs that a Starling is Ready for Weaning?

What are the signs that a starling is ready for weaning? The signs that a starling is ready for weaning can be identified based on their behavior and physical development.

  • Increased interest in solid foods: One of the clear signs that a starling is ready for weaning is their curiosity and interest in exploring solid foods. They may start to show curiosity in the food you are eating, trying to peck at it or tasting small amounts.
  • Ability to perch independently: When a starling is ready for weaning, they will have developed sufficient strength and coordination to perch on their own. This indicates that they are becoming more self-reliant and ready to explore solid foods.
  • Reduced begging behavior: Starlings that are ready for weaning will display a decrease in their begging behavior. They will become less dependent on being hand-fed and more interested in exploring and foraging for food on their own.
  • Feather development: Another sign that a starling is ready for weaning is the development of their feathers. As they grow, their feathers will become more fully formed, indicating that they are reaching a stage of maturity where they can handle solid foods.
  • Healthy weight and growth: It’s important to ensure that the starling is maintaining a healthy weight and showing appropriate growth. An avian veterinarian can assess their weight and growth pattern to determine if they are ready for weaning.

Steps to Wean a Starling

Transitioning a starling from dependency on hand-feeding to independent eating requires a strategic approach. In this section, we will explore the essential steps to wean a starling successfully. From introducing solid foods to gradually reducing hand-feeding, encouraging independent feeding, and monitoring progress, we’ll cover everything you need to know to ensure a smooth and healthy weaning process for your feathered friend. So, let’s dive in and empower your starling towards self-reliance and growth!

Step 1: Introduce Solid Foods

When it comes to weaning a starling, the first step is to introduce solid foods. This is an important milestone in the weaning process as it helps the starling transition from a diet consisting solely of liquid to a more varied and solid diet. Here are the steps to successfully introduce solid foods:

  1. Step 1: Introduce Solid Foods – Start with soft foods: Begin by offering small portions of soft, easily digestible foods such as mashed fruits or vegetables. These can be mixed with a small amount of baby bird formula to make it more familiar to the starling.
  2. Offer a variety of foods: Introduce a wide range of solid foods to expose the starling to different textures and flavors. This can include chopped fruits, cooked grains, and small pieces of leafy greens.
  3. Gradually increase food consistency: Over time, start offering foods with a thicker consistency as the starling becomes more comfortable with solid foods. This can include mashed or chopped foods that require more chewing.
  4. Encourage self-feeding: Place the solid food in a shallow dish or plate and allow the starling to explore and peck at the food on their own. This helps them develop their natural feeding instincts and promotes independence.
  5. Monitor food intake: Keep track of how much solid food the starling is consuming. It’s important to ensure that they are eating enough to meet their nutritional needs while gradually reducing their reliance on hand-feeding.

Remember, each starling may progress at a different pace, so be patient and provide a supportive environment during this transition. By following these steps, you can successfully introduce solid foods to your starling and facilitate their weaning process.

Step 2: Gradually Reduce Hand-Feeding

When weaning a starling, it is important to gradually reduce hand-feeding to encourage independent feeding. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Start by offering solid foods alongside hand-feeding. Introduce small portions of appropriate food items such as chopped fruits, vegetables, and insects.
  2. Gradually reduce hand-feeding sessions. Instead of feeding the starling every time it begs for food, limit it to specific feeding times throughout the day.
  3. Provide opportunities for the starling to practice self-feeding. Place the solid foods in easily accessible bowls or shallow dishes within the bird’s reach.
  4. Gradually reduce the amount of hand-fed food offered. Decrease the portion size during hand-feeding sessions while ensuring there is an ample amount of solid food available for the starling to consume.
  5. Monitor the starling’s progress and adjust the feeding schedule accordingly. If the bird demonstrates an increased ability to feed independently, continue to reduce the hand-feeding sessions gradually.

By following these steps, you can help the starling transition from hand-feeding to independent feeding successfully. It is important to be patient and consistent throughout this process to ensure the bird’s well-being and proficiency in self-feeding. Remember, each starling may progress at a different pace, so adjustments may be necessary based on individual needs.

Step 3: Encourage Independent Feeding

To encourage independent feeding in starlings, follow these steps:

  1. Gradually introduce solid foods: Start by offering small amounts of softened or mashed food alongside their regular hand-feeding formula. This helps familiarize the starling with the taste and texture of solid foods.
  2. Provide a variety of foods: Offer a selection of nutritious foods such as finely chopped fruits, vegetables, and small insects. This helps the starling develop a diverse diet and ensures they receive all the necessary nutrients.
  3. Place food in reachable locations: Put the solid food dishes in easily accessible areas within the starling’s enclosure. This encourages them to explore and try the food on their own.
  4. Observe and encourage self-feeding: Allow the starling to explore the solid foods at their own pace. Observe their behavior to see if they are showing interest in pecking at or picking up the food. Encourage them by gently tapping the food with a small utensil or your finger.
  5. Reduce hand-feeding gradually: As the starling becomes more comfortable with independent feeding, gradually decrease the frequency and amount of hand-feeding formula. This encourages them to rely more on solid foods.

Remember, each starling may progress at its own pace during the weaning process. Be patient and monitor their progress closely. If you notice any concerns, such as refusal to eat solid foods or weight loss, consult a veterinarian for further guidance. By following these steps, you can successfully encourage independent feeding in starlings.

Step 4: Monitor Progress and Adjust Feeding Schedule

To successfully wean a starling, it is crucial to monitor its progress and make necessary adjustments to the feeding schedule. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to effectively carry out “Step 4: Monitor Progress and Adjust Feeding Schedule”:

  1. Observe feeding behavior: Pay close attention to how the starling is adjusting to the new feeding routine. Monitor its appetite and the amount of food it consumes during each feeding.
  2. Weigh the starling regularly: Regular weighing allows you to track the starling’s weight gain or loss. This helps determine if the current feeding schedule and diet are appropriate.
  3. Assess growth and development: Monitor the starling’s physical growth and development. Look for signs of healthy feather development and a steady increase in body size. This indicates that the starling is progressing well and adapting to the weaning process.
  4. Make adjustments based on progress: If the starling is consistently eating well and maintaining a healthy weight, you can gradually decrease the frequency of feedings. This encourages the bird to rely more on independent feeding.
  5. Seek professional advice if necessary: If you notice any concerns or difficulties during the weaning process, it is essential to consult a avian veterinarian or an experienced bird breeder. They can provide guidance on adjusting the feeding schedule and ensuring the starling’s well-being.

By closely monitoring the starling’s progress and making appropriate adjustments to the feeding schedule, you can successfully wean the bird and promote its independence and development. Remember to prioritize the bird’s well-being throughout the process.

Tips for Successful Starling Weaning

Successfully weaning a starling requires careful attention and a well-planned approach. As we explore these helpful tips, you’ll discover the importance of providing a proper diet, creating a comfortable environment, and maintaining patience and consistency throughout the process. So, let’s dive into the essential strategies for ensuring a smooth and successful starling weaning journey.

Provide a Proper Diet

When weaning a starling, it is crucial to provide a proper diet to ensure their health and growth. Here are some factors to consider:

  1. Variety of Foods: Offer a range of foods to present a well-balanced diet for the starling. Include a combination of fruits, vegetables, seeds, and insects to meet their nutritional requirements.
  2. Nutritional Content: Guarantee that the foods you provide are abundant in crucial nutrients such as protein, vitamins, and minerals. This will promote their overall health and development.
  3. High-Quality Food: Select high-quality food sources that are devoid of pesticides, chemicals, and additives. Organic or natural options are optimal for offering a healthy diet.
  4. Proper Portions: Serve suitable portions based on the size and age of the starling. Avoid overfeeding or underfeeding, as both can have adverse effects on their health.
  5. Fresh Water: Supply fresh, clean water for the starling to drink. Regularly change the water to maintain its quality.
  6. Supplements: Consider incorporating supplements or fortified foods to ensure that the starling is obtaining all the necessary nutrients. Consult a veterinarian to determine the appropriate supplements for your particular starling.
  7. Monitor Diet: Regularly observe the starling’s diet and eating habits. Adjust the diet as necessary to ensure they are receiving a proper balance of nutrients.
  8. Gradual Transition: When introducing new foods or making changes to their diet, do so gradually to avoid digestive upset. Slowly introduce new foods and monitor the starling’s response.

By providing a proper diet, you can promote the starling’s growth and overall well-being during the weaning process.

Ensure a Comfortable Environment

  • Ensure a comfortable environment for the starling to feel secure during the weaning process. This can include a spacious cage or aviary with appropriate perches and accessories.
  • Create a calm and quiet environment to minimize stress for the starling. Avoid loud noises or sudden movements that may startle the bird.
  • Ensure adequate lighting in the bird’s environment to promote natural day-night cycles, which are important for their overall well-being.
  • Maintain a stable temperature in the room where the starling is kept. Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations that could negatively impact the bird’s health.
  • Keep the bird’s living area clean and hygienic at all times, regularly removing any droppings, uneaten food, or debris.
  • Provide suitable nesting material for the starling to create a cozy nest-like environment within their enclosure.
  • Offer a variety of perches and toys to keep the starling mentally and physically stimulated, promoting their overall comfort and well-being.
  • Ensure access to fresh water at all times and regularly clean and refill the bird’s water container.
  • Monitor the starling’s behavior closely during the weaning process to ensure they are comfortable and adjusting well to their new feeding routine.
  • Seek professional advice from a veterinarian or avian specialist if you notice any signs of distress or discomfort in the starling during the weaning process.

Be Patient and Consistent

Being patient and consistent is crucial during the starling weaning process to ensure a smooth transition. Here are some key points to consider:

  1. Establish a routine: Stick to a regular feeding schedule and gradually introduce solid foods alongside hand-feeding to encourage the starling’s independence.
  2. Provide a supportive environment: Create a calm and comfortable environment for the starling during mealtimes. Eliminate distractions and offer a designated feeding area.
  3. Offer a variety of foods: Introduce a diverse range of suitable foods to stimulate the starling’s interest and provide balanced nutrition. This can include fruits, vegetables, insects, and commercially available bird food.
  4. Monitor progress: Keep a close eye on the starling’s progress and adjust the feeding schedule accordingly. Keep track of weight gain, behavior changes, and the bird’s response to different foods.
  5. Stay patient and consistent: It is natural for starlings to take time to adjust to solid foods and independent feeding. Be patient and consistent in offering encouragement and support throughout the weaning process.
  6. Seek professional advice if needed: If you encounter challenges or concerns during the weaning process, consult an avian veterinarian or experienced bird breeder for guidance.

By being patient and consistent, you can help your starling successfully transition to independent feeding. Remember that each bird is unique, and the weaning process may vary in duration.

Common Challenges in Starling Weaning

When it comes to weaning starlings, there are common challenges that bird lovers need to be aware of. From refusal to eat solid foods to weight loss or poor weight gain, and even the risks of overfeeding or underfeeding, these hurdles can derail the weaning process. In this section, we’ll dive into the specifics of each challenge, providing insights and tips to overcome them and ensure a successful transition for your starling. So, let’s navigate the world of starling weaning together!

Refusal to Eat Solid Foods

Refusal to Eat Solid Foods can present itself as a common challenge when it comes to starling weaning. Starlings, much like any other bird, may show resistance to trying out new foods or transitioning from a liquid-based diet to solid foods. Addressing this issue is crucial to ensure the proper growth and development of the bird.

When encountering a starling that refuses to consume solid foods, there are a few strategies that can be implemented:

  1. Gradual introduction: Begin by offering small portions of solid foods alongside their regular liquid diet. This will allow the bird to become accustomed to the new textures and flavors without feeling overwhelmed.
  2. Food variety: Introduce a range of solid foods to captivate the starling’s interest. Incorporate fruits, vegetables, insects, and commercially available bird pellets. Experimenting with different textures and colors can help ascertain the bird’s preferences.
  3. Role modeling: Birds are often influenced by observing others. If you have other starlings or birds that readily consume solid foods, place the reluctant starling among them during mealtime. Witnessing others enjoying solid foods may encourage the hesitant bird to try them as well.
  4. Food presentation: Birds may be more inclined to sample solid foods if they are presented in a manner that mimics their natural foraging behavior. Consider placing food items on foraging toys or concealed within the bird’s enclosure to promote exploration and discovery.
  5. Patience and consistency: It may take time for a starling to embrace solid foods. Ensure patience and maintain a consistent offering of various options. Avoid forcing the bird to eat, as this can form negative associations with solid foods.

By implementing these strategies and closely monitoring the starling’s progress, the challenge of Refusal to Eat Solid Foods during the weaning process can be overcome. It is essential to consult with a veterinarian or avian specialist for further guidance and specific dietary recommendations for starlings.

Weight Loss or Poor Weight Gain

Weight loss or poor weight gain is a common challenge that bird owners may face during the weaning process of a starling. It is crucial to address this issue promptly to ensure the bird’s health and development.

One possible cause of weight loss or poor weight gain in a starling is an inadequate diet. It is essential to provide the bird with a proper diet that meets its nutritional needs. This should include a balanced combination of high-quality pellets, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Ensure that the bird is consuming enough calories to support its growth and energy requirements.

Another factor that may contribute to weight loss or poor weight gain is stress or discomfort in the bird’s environment. Make sure that the bird has a comfortable and safe space to eat and rest. Minimize disturbances and provide a calm environment to reduce stress levels.

In some cases, weight loss or poor weight gain may be a result of insufficient food intake. Monitor the bird’s eating habits closely and ensure that it is consuming an adequate amount of food. Adjust the feeding schedule accordingly to encourage regular and sufficient feeding.

If weight loss or poor weight gain persists despite addressing these factors, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian with avian expertise. They can perform a thorough examination and provide guidance on potential underlying health issues or specific dietary requirements for the starling.

Monitoring the starling’s weight and addressing any concerns promptly are important aspects of successful weaning. By providing a proper diet, a comfortable environment, and attentive care, you can help your starling overcome weight loss or poor weight gain and thrive during the weaning process.

Overfeeding or Underfeeding

Proper feeding is crucial during the weaning process of a starling to ensure their healthy growth. Both overfeeding and underfeeding can lead to various challenges and complications. Here are some factors to consider regarding overfeeding or underfeeding a starling:

  1. Observing portion sizes: It is important to provide an appropriate amount of food to avoid overfeeding or underfeeding. The recommended portion size for a starling should be in line with their age and size. A nutritionist or avian specialist can provide guidance on the ideal portion sizes for starlings.
  2. Monitoring body condition: Regularly assess the starling’s body condition to ensure they are receiving the right amount of food. Overfeeding may result in excessive weight gain, while underfeeding can lead to weight loss. Optimal body condition ensures proper growth and development.
  3. Feeding frequency: Establish a consistent feeding schedule. Starlings require regular meals throughout the day. Overfeeding can occur if meals are too frequent or if the portion sizes are too large per feeding. Conversely, underfeeding can happen if meals are too infrequent or portion sizes are too small. Strike a balance to ensure the starling receives adequate nutrition.
  4. Quality of food: Provide a nutritious and well-balanced diet to prevent overfeeding or underfeeding. Nutritious food should contain essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals necessary for the starling’s growth. Consult an avian specialist to determine the appropriate diet for starlings.
  5. Seek professional guidance: If you suspect that you may be overfeeding or underfeeding your starling, consult a veterinarian or avian specialist. They can evaluate the bird’s diet, feeding practices, and overall health to provide personalized recommendations.
  6. Adjusting feeding as needed: Regularly assess the starling’s feeding behavior and body condition. If you notice signs of overfeeding or underfeeding, such as poor weight gain or excessive weight gain, adjust the feeding routine accordingly under professional guidance.

By providing appropriate portion sizes, monitoring body condition, establishing a feeding schedule, offering quality food, seeking professional guidance, and making necessary adjustments, you can help prevent overfeeding or underfeeding during the weaning process of a starling.

Some Facts About How To Wean A Starling:

  • ✅ In order to wean a baby starling, it is important to research the appropriate foods for their species. (Source: Our Team)
  • ✅ During the weaning process, baby starlings should be kept well-fed with formula or mash to encourage them to try solid food. (Source: Our Team)
  • ✅ As the feathers of baby starlings come in, more solids can be added to their mash to introduce them to solid food. (Source: Our Team)
  • ✅ When a baby starling starts to peck, a little solid food should be placed in a heavy dish for them to practice feeding on their own. (Source: Our Team)
  • ✅ It is recommended to seek professional help or take baby starlings to a wildlife clinic or center for proper care and treatment. (Source: Our Team)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I wean a baby starling off of hand-feedings?

Weaning a baby starling off of hand-feedings involves gradually introducing solid foods into its diet. Start by researching the appropriate foods for starlings and consult a wildlife rehabilitator if needed. Keep the bird well-fed with formula or mash during the transition, gradually increasing the amount of solid food as its feathers come in. When the bird starts to peck, place a little solid food in a heavy dish for it to practice feeding on its own.

2. Can I keep a baby starling as a pet?

No, it is illegal to keep wild baby birds as pets. It is important to follow legal regulations and avoid keeping wild animals as pets. If you find a baby starling, it is best to contact a wildlife rehabilitator who can provide the necessary care and prepare the bird for release into the wild.

3. What should I do if I find an injured baby starling?

If you find an injured baby starling, it is important to take it to a wildlife clinic for proper treatment. Avoid attempting to care for injured birds on your own, as they require specialized care from professionals who can assess their injuries and provide appropriate treatment.

4. How can I help a baby starling that has fallen from its nest?

If you find a baby starling without any signs of injuries or illnesses, try to locate its nest and return the bird to it. If you cannot find the nest, you can place the bird in a bush or on a tree limb and keep cats indoors to ensure its safety. If you are unsure about the best course of action, contacting a wildlife rehabilitator is recommended.

5. What should I feed a baby starling during the weaning process?

During the weaning process, baby starlings can be fed a combination of formula or mash and solid foods appropriate for their species. Research the specific dietary needs of starlings, and consult a veterinarian or wildlife rehabilitator for guidance. Gradually increase the amount of solid food as the bird’s feathers come in, and offer a variety of foods that mimic their natural diet.

6. Is it true that birds will reject their young if touched by a human?

No, it is a myth that birds will reject their young if touched by a human. Birds have a poor sense of smell and touching their young will not cause them to abandon their nest or offspring. However, it is still important to minimize handling baby birds as much as possible and to contact a wildlife rehabilitator for proper care and guidance.

Julian Goldie - Owner of ChiperBirds.com

Julian Goldie

I'm a bird enthusiast and creator of Chipper Birds, a blog sharing my experience caring for birds. I've traveled the world bird watching and I'm committed to helping others with bird care. Contact me at [email protected] for assistance.