I've got a robin that's made a nest in my toolbox, and I've been watching it with a trial cam. The chicks are around 3 to 4 weeks old now and starting to look like little robins with visible feathers. Lately, though, the mom hasn't been coming back for quite a while, and I'm starting to worry. Is it normal for her to leave the nest for extended periods? Did I mess things up by setting up the camera?
4 Answers
Young robins typically leave the nest by about four weeks old, so it’s likely that the parents are encouraging them to fledge. Once they leave, they’ll usually stay on the ground for a bit, and the parents will continue feeding them. Just be careful not to disturb the nest too much, as that can frighten them away.
It's pretty normal for robins to leave for short periods during the day to grab food and water. But if they've been gone for hours or overnight, that could be a problem. In that case, it might be good to reach out to your local wildlife rescue for advice. They can help you figure out what to do next.
How close is your camera to the nest? If it’s too close, it might be scaring the parents away. They might be trying to encourage the chicks to leave the nest, too. Just remember, keep your distance! If the camera's close, consider removing it. Also, if you're staying around waiting, try to give them space; they’ll take care of their babies without interaction from you.
It sounds like the parents are just encouraging the chicks to fledge. This typically happens when the chicks are around 14 days old after hatching. So, it’s likely a normal part of their development.
Definitely reach out for advice if you're worried. Better safe than sorry!