Misconceptions About Bird Behavior
The widespread belief that birds will abandon their young if touched stems from superstition and a limited understanding of avian biology. Contrary to this myth, most birds have a limited sense of smell and cannot detect human scent on their chicks. The origin of this misconception likely arises from a well-intentioned desire to protect young birds and wildlife from human interference.
While handling baby birds can be stressful and is generally discouraged, the notion that a parent bird would disown their offspring due to human contact lacks biological validity. Birds primarily recognize their young through visual and auditory cues, maintaining their commitment to caring for and feeding their chicks until they are ready to leave the nest.