Many newly hatched chicks are fully feathered after around two months of intensive care from their parents on the campus of Hainan University in southern China's lush mangrove forest near to a lake. The chicks may go on simple outings without their parents since they are shielded by lush foliage. The photos below show egret chicks attempting to explore the world outside of the nest out of curiosity or remaining close to home while waiting for their parents. 

(All photos by Prof. Wang Aimin, Hainan University)

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