What is a nestling?

A nestling refers to a young bird that is still in the nest and is under the care of adult birds, typically its parents. During this stage, nestlings are dependent on adults for food, warmth, and protection. They have not yet developed the skills necessary to leave the nest or forage for themselves. This period is crucial for their development, as they rely entirely on adult birds for nourishment until they are mature enough to fledge, or leave the nest. Understanding the stages of avian development is important for wildlife control operators, as it helps in assessing the best practices for managing bird populations and ensuring the young birds receive necessary care and support.