MILLINGTON, N.J. (Morris County) — At The Raptor Trust, one of the most dedicated caregivers isn’t a veterinarian or wildlife rehabilitator — she’s a mourning dove named Momma Blossom.
The gentle foster bird has taken on an important role at the Millington-based wildlife rehabilitation center, caring for orphaned baby mourning doves by providing the warmth, comfort and attention they need to grow and eventually return to the wild.
Blossom’s own story makes her role even more remarkable.
According to The Raptor Trust, she was previously imprinted on humans and, although she was released back into the wild, she repeatedly returned to the rehabilitation center. Caregivers soon discovered she had a unique talent for nurturing orphaned young birds.
Whenever possible, the organization places orphaned baby mourning doves with foster parents like Blossom rather than hand-raising them.
The Raptor Trust said being raised by another bird of the same species helps young doves develop natural behaviors, recognize their own kind and gives them the best chance of surviving once they are released into the wild.
Now, Blossom spends her days building nests and caring for her adopted babies, offering the kind of round-the-clock care that humans simply cannot replicate.
The Raptor Trust is asking the public to help support Blossom and the many other birds in its care by donating paper towels, an everyday supply used throughout the organization’s avian hospital and rehabilitation facilities.
Those wishing to help can purchase paper towels through The Raptor Trust’s Amazon Wish List.
