fledgling

Fledgling refers to a young bird that has recently acquired flight feathers and has left the nest, though it may still rely on parental care for food and protection. In ornithology, the term describes a transitional stage between a nestling (a young bird still in the nest or unable to fly) and a juvenile or adult. The exact timing of fledging varies by species and environment; some birds fledge within days of hatching, while others remain in the nest for weeks or months.

After fledging, the young bird is learning to fly, forage, and navigate its surroundings. Fledglings may make short flights, beg for food from parents, and remain within the family territory as they gradually acquire independence. Predation risks are higher during this phase, and success depends on parental guidance, camouflage, and food availability. Behaviors such as begging calls and wing-flapping practice are common during this period.

The term fledgling is also used outside ornithology to describe anything in an early stage of development, especially a person, organization, or venture that is new and inexperienced. In this sense, a fledgling company or a fledgling researcher denotes initial growth and the process of gaining experience.

In summary, a fledgling is a recently fledged young bird transitioning toward self-sufficiency, with substantial variation across species and a broad metaphorical usage in everyday language.