Feathers and Fuzz

one woman's cure for the empty-nester blues

All the Others

Creative Fledging — House Finch Style

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The House Finch nestlings met expectations by beginning to fledge on schedule -- April 18.  What wasn't expected was the measure of Creative Fledging this brood of 4 displayed.  As I went back through the recorded footage to capture the fledge highlights for you, I had to chuckle at the vast differences ... and the antics of the fourth of four as s/he clung to the security of the nest.

 

Meanwhile ...

Migration is in full swing.  I promise pictures in the coming days as it is so delightful to see all the colors of spring reappear!

The Bluebirds in the north house fledged (well and strong), watering the flowers uncovered the Carolina Wren's second clutch of 5 eggs in the Boston Fern, both Bluebird pairs have completed building nest #2, and the entire brood of Eastern Phoebe nestlings are being TOTALLY defiant of their parents instructions to FLEDGE ALREADY!  Their stories will follow soon.

First Fledge 2019: Bluebirds Claim the Title

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The three Eastern Bluebird nestlings in the West house took wing today marking The Retreat's First Fledge of 2019.

As shown in the series of photos, Dad Bluebird was hard at work coaxing his youngsters to brave that first leap.

First Fledge 2019 - Male Parent Coaxing
First Fledge 2019 - Dad Giving Instructions
First Fledge 2019 - Parent Coaxing

I've seen this coaxing go on for days, but this brood responded quickly!  The fledglings certainly didn't demonstrate strong flight, but it was a beautiful day here in Georgia and I expect to see them landing on the mealworm feeder in a couple weeks -- beaks wide open!

 

Meanwhile ...

Momma Chickadee (I assume a second pair in addition to the Adobe Chick) took up nest building in the East house in spite of its proximity to the new house construction on the lot next to mine.

The four House Finch nestlings are on fledge watch.  They should be gone by tomorrow.  As shown in the photo, this is a good thing as CLEARLY Finches don't do poop sacs!

Mom Chickadee and Her Cotton-ball Bedding

Momma Chickadee: Cotton Ball Bedding

Finches Don't Do Poop Sacs

House Finch Nestlings Clearly Don't do Poop Sacs