when do baby birds leave the nest

Baby birds typically leave the nest (fledge) between about 8 to 30 days after hatching, depending on the species. Small songbirds often leave the nest 8 to 12 days after hatching, while others like barn swallows may stay up to 20 days or more before fledging. Most baby birds leave the nest just before they can fly well, and fledgling birds are often still dependent on parents for food and protection after leaving the nest. This stage is critical as fledglings learn to fly and survive outside the nest but are vulnerable to predators and environmental risks. The time frame varies widely among different bird species and environmental conditions.