When do baby birds begin to fly?

Baby birds, also known as fledglings, typically begin to fly at different ages depending on the species. On average, most songbirds leave the nest 10-14 days after hatching, and start flying 7-21 days after leaving the nest. Larger species, such as eagles, hawks, and owls, may take several months before they are able to fly.

The process of learning to fly is gradual, and young birds may start by flapping their wings while still in the nest. They then progress to short flights, hopping, and gliding, before they are able to sustain longer flights. During this period, they are still dependent on their parents for food and protection.

The ability to fly is crucial for birds as it enables them to find food, escape from predators, and migrate. As such, it is a significant milestone in their development and survival.