When i checked mine, I just looked inside, Should you be handling them? Does everyone get them out and inspect them? I guess you learn something everyday.

I monitor a bluebird trail at a local nature center, and found 5 dead chicks in one of the nests due to blowflies. Normally I'd leave mine alone, but I wanted to check them for parasites. As part of the nature center trail monitoring, I've been instructed to take them out and examine them, remove any parasites, etc. Obviously this should be done very quickly to minimize disturbance. I probably won't do it again at home unless I find parasites in the nest.

Young bird's bellies always look swollen to me but wow that does look unusually swollen. If there is something wrong I sure don't know what there is you could do about it though. I have rescued them from cold, wet, abandonment or starvation but without knowing if anything is wrong or not I think all you can do is keep an eye on them for now. His color looks good. I have seen them looking pretty yellow and those usually don't make it. Keep us posted.
Cathy

Gibby, no you really should not handle them unless you notice something is wrong, even then you should not touch them unless you have a rehabber walking you through it. Gymell has been a round quite a while.
BTW gymell did you notice Elli is looking for some pictures? I bet you have some good ones!

The belly does look awfully big, and the crop looks awfully empty. Keep us updated on how it goes please.