Baby blackbird - approximate age? (2 Viewers)

[vinnielo]

The council hedgecutters came earlier this week and managed to disturb a nest of Blackbirds in the hedge.
As expected, the young 'uns all popped out of the nest in shock.
As I managed to photo one of them, can someone estimate their age?
There was no way they could fly, and they were only seen hopping along the ground.

 

[nirofo]

The council hedgecutters came earlier this week and managed to disturb a nest of Blackbirds in the hedge.
As expected, the young 'uns all popped out of the nest in shock.
As I managed to photo one of them, can someone estimate their age?
There was no way they could fly, and they were only seen hopping along the ground.

Hi vinnielo

It looks to be about 10 to 11 days old and is nearly ready to fledge, they usually fledge at 13 to 14 days old. You need to keep a good eye out for cats, they will make short work of these chicks if they are not able to fly properly yet!

nirofo.

 

[vinnielo]

Thanks Nirofo.
I couldn't keep an eye on them (there were at least 2) as they wanted to escape through the hedge to next door neighbour's garden before nightfall.
I hadn't seen/heard them the last couple of days, so I hope they made it through.
I haven't seen any cats or magpies lately.