Fledgling songbirds are commonly believed to be orphans, but it is a natural phase of development for most songbirds to leave the nest before they have learned to fly. Fledglings are fully feathered, but may have short tail and wing feathers. They are able to hop, flutter, and sometimes fly a small distance. Both parent birds continue to feed fledglings on the ground and by observing the fledgling from a distance, you will likely see this behavior. As long as one or both parents are seen caring for the fledgling and it appears otherwise healthy and uninjured, it should be left alone and will learn to fly in a few days.

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Hatchling and nestling birds found outside of the nest need assistance. Nestlings are baby birds that have almost no feathering and hatchlings are starting to get feathers but are still being cared for inside the nest. A licensed rehabilitator should be contacted if you find a hatchling or nestling on the ground. The bird can sometimes be placed back in the original nest, but there is a good chance it has been injured in a fall and will need help from a licensed rehabilitator. 

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Most songbirds are migratory birds and require a wildlife rehabilitator with a federal rehabilitation permit. Use the MassWildlife Rehabber Map to locate a bird rehabilitator near you.