Yesterday (April 28, 2025), I posted about the Carolina Wren fledglings exploring my yard: Carolina Wren Fledglings Exploring My Yard. Later that same day, I was treated to another wonderful experience with a different group of fledglings.
While sitting quietly on my deck with my camera, a young Carolina Chickadee fledgling suddenly landed just a few feet away. The tiny bird had flown from the direction of the dwarf pear tree, where one of my birdhouses is located. These chickadees had been nesting there, and I had written about them earlier this spring: Chickadees Join Bluebirds in Spring Nesting Season.
Over the past several days, I’ve been photographing the adult chickadees as they made frequent trips in and out of the birdhouse to feed their young. Based on their behavior, I knew fledging time was near. Still, I didn’t expect to witness it from just a few feet away. Having one of the fledglings land beside me was an incredible moment. I like to think it recognized the human who’s been providing food and a safe environment.
A Second Carolina Chickadee Fledgling Spotted
Later in the morning, I saw another Carolina Chickadee fledgling in a nearby pine tree, being fed by one of the parents. I’m not sure how many chicks were in the nest, but I hope all of them made it out safely. Observing this family’s progress has been both rewarding and heartwarming.
Photo and Gear Details
The featured photo shows the Carolina Chickadee fledgling on my deck, likely calling for a parent or announcing its first adventure outside the nest. I used my Canon EOS R5 with the RF 200-800mm lens to capture the moment.
Spring continues to bring surprises to my yard, and I’m looking forward to what the season has in store next.
What a nice surprise to have one land close to you. I watch my Little Black Cap Chickadees go from Pine Tree to the feeder all day long. I feed them Sunflower oil seeds in the shell, so they make many trips back and forth!