Massachusetts Wildlife Rehabilitator Practice Exam

A newly hatched bird that has feathers and can follow its parents shortly after hatching is considered what type of bird?

1. A precocial bird

2. A fledgling bird

3. An altricial bird

4. A brancher

The correct answer is: A precocial bird

A newly hatched bird that has feathers and can follow its parents shortly after hatching is classified as a precocial bird. Precocial birds are characterized by being relatively mature and mobile from the moment of birth or hatching. They are equipped with feathers and their eyes are open, allowing them to move around and begin foraging soon after hatching. In contrast, altricial birds hatch in a much less developed state, typically featherless, blind, and entirely dependent on their parents for food and protection. Fledgling birds refer specifically to young birds that are nearing the age where they can fly and are learning to do so but are still dependent on their parents. A brancher is a term used for birds that have left the nest but may not yet fly properly, often seen perched on branches while still requiring parental care. In this context, the defining features of a precocial bird emphasize its readiness for life outside the nest shortly after hatching, making it the correct classification for the bird described in the question.