Is there any known truth to the idea that once you handle baby birds/ducks the mother won't accept them back/let them follow her around?
Or is that some bizarre old folk myth?

Actually, from what I've read in the last 10 or so years, it turns out that's not true at all. You can pick an infant off the ground and place it back into the nest, and the mother will accept it just fine.
I'm really not sure where the myth came from. I'm certain it probably applies to some scenarios, but for the most part that was disproved at least several years ago.

Unfortunately the same cannot be said for those who film video while holding their device vertically. Society deems them as something less than human, and just won't accept them back.

This is a really good site for looking up any urban legend or folk tale.

http://www.snopes.com/critters/wild/babybird.asp

Thank you!

I love watching humans use tools in creative ways.

Actually, I love watching any species use tools.

*howto

better make sure the paper towel is firmly attached.

Adding video to channels (Howto) - requested by Eklek.