How do birds identify their parents and children?

Most animals identify their relatives the same way that we do. Each bird is an individual, and though it may be difficult for us to tell two robins apart, it isn't hard for the birds to do so. read more

The birds are most likely gulls. The dark feathered bird was one of the babies you saw leave the nest. Most birds, including seagulls and terns, will continue to care for their babies for quite some time after the youngsters leave the nest, usually for the remainder of the summer and into the fall. read more

Smell is also involved in the recognition of kin in some birds, such as penguins (Smells may help birds identify their relatives). 3. Multimodal: In primates, the mother-baby bond is socially complex and involves basically all senses, in addition to all kinds of socially reinforced cues, such as cuddling. read more

Most birds do not recognize their family members after their first year. There are exceptions to this, especially among social birds such as cranes, crows, and jays. Canada Geese also remember their parents, and may even rejoin their parents and siblings during winter and on migration. read more