back cover

Jun. 2002 - Vol. 63, No. 6

Back cover image Baby Birds

In early summer, little feathered balls of fluff, like this fledgling summer tanager, abound in our forests, fields and suburbs. Hatchlings of most bird species grow rapidly and leave their nest 8 to 14 days after emerging from the eggs. They often appear helpless and abandoned, but usually one or both parents are waiting nearby to feed and protect them during this period of transition.