An adopted bird with a big heart is winning over animal lovers while helping care for orphaned baby birds in New Jersey.
Staff say Blossom has been busy building a cozy nest and caring for adopted babies, giving them the warmth, comfort and attention they need while growing stronger.
Blossom came to The Raptor Trust after becoming imprinted on humans. Although she was later released, she repeatedly returned to the organization.
Caregivers say they eventually discovered her true talent — helping raise orphaned birds.
Whenever possible, The Raptor Trust places baby birds with foster parents like Blossom instead of hand-raising them.
Experts say being raised by birds of their own species helps young animals develop natural behaviors, recognize other birds and improve their chances of surviving once released into the wild.
The nonprofit says donations of paper towels help support its avian hospital and foster bird program.