Don't Peek: Why?
Once these new babies recognize the parents that feed them, they will crouch down in the nest if anything else shows up. But that changes by the time they are 10 or 11 days old. Then they'll panic and flutter off to escape anything that gets near the nest. They can't go far, but they won't be able to get back up to the nest. Do you see why it's important to not peek into robin nests after the babies are about a week old? The parents will still feed a baby that survives a sudden escape in panic. They will try to lead the baby to dense vegetation to keep it hidden from predators. But a baby is much safer in the nest until the right time to fledge.

If you see a bird in trouble, where can you go for answers and help? Today, Journey North's robin expert tells you: See Answers from the Robin Expert!

Courtesy of Sandra Bedford