Are baby galahs supposed to be able to fly once they leave the nest? Non-flying juvenile I'm concerned about.

Just wanted to check on something that has me a bit worried. I shooed a young galah off a road yesterday (it was trying hard to get run over) and it was obviously pre-flight. Feathered but no long tail feathers yet, flapping didn't lift it at all so clearly not strong yet.

Is this right for galahs? I know many Australian birds have a "ground" period between nest and flight, but a few things I've read suggest that galahs usually fly straight from the nest hollow, without that intermediate phase. Just concerned the little guy might be out before he's ready.

Mum and dad were watching over it so I'm sure it's getting fed. I shooed it into an empty construction block with some good bushes so it should have cover. Hopefully not in any danger but I'm just fretting a bit that it might need intervention. I know they are usually more robust than they seem though, hopefully someone can set my mind at ease!

Posted Dec 31, 2022, 2:48 AM UTC

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hi_im_redbeardBird nerd•

Yeh always better to just call your local wildlife rescue place and give them a heads up, they'll be able to tell if it needs help or not and better to be safe than sorry.

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I think if it cannot fly in maybe a few more days then 1300 ANIMAL might be needed

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Resist_Easy•

They should be at least able to flutter up to a branch, I believe, to be considered a fledgling/branchling. If they are at that stage, but on a road still I would be concerned as well. A call to your local wildlife group is advisable when not sure! They might suggest placing it on a branch away from the road if possible, or doing what you have done. They will have more of an idea if it needs intervention.

I also find the Australian Bird ID group on Facebook is good for asking about young birds too as there are many who are experienced with identifying what stage the youngsters are at! I’m just regurgitating info I’ve learnt there.

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