​Bliss the black vulture (​Coragyps atratus) came to the ACCA in the summer of 2025 as a sick and dehydrated young bird that had been taken from a nest and kept in a private home. At admission it was clear that she had already imprinted humans, as she had been removed from the nest as a very young chick.

After several weeks in the hospital receiving antibiotics and supportive care, she was given the all-clear by our veterinarians. It is unethical to release a vulture (or any raptor) that readily approaches humans; she has been transferred to our educational permit, and now she has the important job of helping to educate people about the important role that vultures play in healthy ecosystems.
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Her name was suggested by one of our friends in honor of a family member, and we think it fits perfectly! The word “bliss” can be defined as feeling happiness and great joy — which is what we think people will feel when they meet this amazing little bird!

For more information about black vultures and the important role they play in healthy ecosystems: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Black_Vulture/