Fledglings

Fledglings are baby birds that are more or less fully feathered. It is common to find them on the ground during the warmer months, even if they don’t look to be moving around much.



The majority of fledglings will leave a cramped nest a day or two early, allowing their last few feathers to develop while they stretch their wings. The parents continue feeding and keeping an eye on their chicks; even if you can’t see them at the time, they will be away gathering food or watching you from a distance.



Unless the fledgling is visibly injured, the best thing you can do is leave it well alone. However, if you find a chick near the road, on a path or in another place that could pose a threat, gently pick it up and move it to a sheltered spot as nearby as possible. Birds communicate with one another constantly, so can easily reunite if they are in hearing distance.

If the fledgling is definitely injured, or is obviously unwell, transport it safely home before contacting your nearest wildlife rescue.