Empty Nest

After watching the bushtit nest for weeks, the dramatic climax happened so fast I would have missed it if I hadn't been glued to my spot. I have no idea how many were in the nest - I only saw one fledge.  I spotted a little beak at the nest opening on a Sunday and on Monday they were all gone. Apparently once they leave the nest, they don't return, unlike some other birds (and teenagers).

First peek at a beak

It's a boy! 

The parents' behavior changed the last couple of days, especially Dad's. He came to the nest frequently but without food. He chattered at the babies, no doubt telling them to get out and find a job!

And he's out of the nest. Here's Waldo!

Telling Mom he still expects her to feed him! 

And she obliges, for now.

Stretching his wings.

Shortly after this he flew into the nearby walnut tree. I didn't see him again. 

The parents are refreshing the nest it seems, so there will probably be another family this summer. Since they don't have to rebuild from scratch - an almost two month process - the turnaround should be fairly quick.