Newly hatched chicks are extremely vulnerable. Delicate handling and rigid feeding schedules are required in the first few weeks. They are sightless, featherless and have a miniscule crop (their stomach) requiring frequent feedings day and night with small amounts of nutrients. After feeding, their feathered mom would use her beak and tongue to keep her clutch clean. I dunked them gently in a small birdie bath.

As the chicks mature, they become a source of much enjoyment. They are natural comedians as they learn to perch and interact with one another. Feathers emerge at diverse times, with pin feathers on the top of their heads popping up one at a time. They are motley looking for many weeks until they are fully feathered. Much wishing on my part that the videos and many other images of their antics could be restored.

Recall my moniker ‘Bird Nut”? I come by it honestly and could upgrade to all around ‘Critter Nut”. Accepting responsibility for the welfare of any creature is not to be taken lightly or without careful thought. It is not a part-time obligation or to be taken on as a whim.

When considering the journey from acceptance of responsibility to many potential years of care, a different decision may be reached. But if a choice is made to remove a living entity from their natural habitat you MUST try and supply the same environment and specific physical comforts of food and shelter to the best of your ability.

From hatching to fledging birds the journey in raising them is fascinating, sometimes heartbreaking, but rewarding work as well.

-Leika