Fledgling refers to a bird that which of the following describes?

Fledgling refers to a bird that which of the following describes?

• A. Is out of the nest and able to flutter short distances, still dependent on its parents for food and protection
• B. Is out of the nest and ready for full flight
• C. Is still in the egg
• D. Is an adult

Answer: (A)

A fledgling is a bird that has left the nest and can flutter short distances, but still relies on its parents for food and protection. This stage sits between a nestling (still in the nest) and a fully independent juvenile or adult. So being out of the nest and able to flutter a bit while still depending on parents best fits this term. A bird that is out of the nest and ready for full flight is more advanced and closer to independence, not the fledgling stage. Being still in the egg or being an adult describes earlier or later life stages, respectively.

A fledgling is a bird that has left the nest and can flutter short distances, but still relies on its parents for food and protection. This stage sits between a nestling (still in the nest) and a fully independent juvenile or adult. So being out of the nest and able to flutter a bit while still depending on parents best fits this term. A bird that is out of the nest and ready for full flight is more advanced and closer to independence, not the fledgling stage. Being still in the egg or being an adult describes earlier or later life stages, respectively.