A fledgling is described as which of the following?

• A. In the nest and unable to flutter
• B. Out of the nest and able to flutter short distances, not fully flight-capable
• C. Fully flight-capable
• D. In the egg

Answer: (B)

Fledgling is a young bird that has left the nest but is still learning to fly. It can flutter short distances and isn’t yet fully flight-capable, which is exactly what the correct description conveys. This stage sits between the nestling (still in the nest and often unable to flutter) and a bird that is fully capable of sustained flight. It’s also not still in the egg. Recognizing this stage helps determine appropriate handling and care in rehabilitation, as fledglings typically rely on parental birds nearby rather than direct human intervention.