After the eggs hatch, small birds such as zebra finches and canaries may only need about one week for their wings to develop. Large birds in the eagle family, like hawks or eagles, will require around six weeks before they are ready to fly. Fledglings typically perch on branches until they are ready to fly, which means the fledglings are not able to leave the nest until their wings develop. Keeping babies in a nest for an extended period of time will give them the best chance at survival because they will be stronger before leaving home.