How smart are birds?

Question

I feel awful! We've had a wet summer and I was clearing out some vines that were overtaking the side of the house. Without realizing it I pulled down a cardinal's nest. I should have known something was up because Mom and Dad cardinal were watching me the whole time. I accidentally stepped on one fledgling, then found another who was chirping. I put the baby bird back in the nest, put the nest back in the lilac tree. But - will Mom and Dad find it? I feel like c**p. I didn't know birds made nests and raised babies this late in the summer.

Answer 1

OMG this is not late in the summer time at all! Birds raise babies until october all over the place not just 1 area and 1 clutch a year. And hook bill birds like parrots we own begin their breeding season in october in the colder months. It is too late for those babies now sinse you disturbed them. The parents may hang out a few days but won't bother with the baby now. They will most likely relocated away from your area. And don't feel bad it happens to best of us sometimes.

Answer 2

The thing about "if you touch a baby bird it's parents won't go near it" thing is a myth. And I sure hope they will find the nest. put the nest in a similar area though. good luck to you and the birds.....lol :]

Answer 3

They are pretty darn smart! Have faith in them...they'll find their baby! You had an accident, that's all. Just an accident. kjl