Why do baby birds fall out of the nest?
Baby birds, or altricial neonate (literally, “newborns requiring nourishment”), often fall out of the nest to be found by well-meaning humans who assume they’re orphans. However, for many species of song and perching birds, this may not be the case.Hatchling (or Nestling)This word “hatchling” accounts for the earliest stage of development in baby birds. Hatchlings are from zero to 7 days old and have limited eyesight and motor skills, and a thin, partial layer of down.FledglingAfter a week, the fledglings develop thermal regulation, or the ability to produce heat on their own. Their eyes open fully and are able to track motion, as pin feathers grow out of the skin.Accidental EvacuationIt’s common for baby birds to get pushed out of the nest by their siblings. Hatchlings, having poor coordination, can get accidentally bumped out or unwittingly back themselves over the edge of the nest.CompetitionWhen nest space is limited, nestlings may squeeze their weaker siblings out of the nest.Flig
