What is meant by fledging?

[Martin Butterfield <>]

In the past I have come across two definitions:

1. a young bird leaving the nest ; and
   
2. a young bird taking its first flight.
   

Some people have said there is no difference between the 2 definitions.  

This morning at 0530 the male adult was not in the nest and both chicks were vigorously flapping their wings.  However take off did not happen, and Dad returned shortly thereafter.  At about 0830 this was the situation.

​The more adventurous chick is clearly out of the nest.  It still hasn't flown but in the last 10 minutes there has been much stretching of wings.  On past experience the business of walking up and down a branch could go on for a couple of days, sometimes both chicks and Dad taking a stroll.  I don't believe they have yet fledged.

Martin Butterfield

http://franmart.blogspot.com.au/