Monday, July 6, 2026

What’s Working

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KindnessGood News Network

Crow Takes to Teaching a Starving Orphan Bird How to Eat (Watch)

In a heartwarming tale from Nottingham, England, an older crow has taken on the nurturing role of a surrogate parent to a starving orphaned jackdaw named Frank. Discovered in a dire state, Frank was brought to Brinsley Animal Rescue, where he was placed with an older fledgling who began to feed him, despite having only recently learned to eat himself. This unexpected act of avian compassion has not only saved Frank but has also provided a touching example of interspecies care.

The story is a testament to the remarkable instincts and empathy found in the animal kingdom, often mirroring the best of human qualities. The older crow's willingness to care for Frank demonstrates a profound understanding of community and support, offering a lesson in kindness that transcends species. As Frank continues to grow and recover under the care of both his feathered mentor and the rescue volunteers, this narrative highlights the potential for recovery and resilience when compassion is given a chance to flourish.

Constructive analysis

The constructive-journalism lens: not just what happened, but what works.

The problem
The challenge of rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned wildlife to ensure their survival.
The actions
Brinsley Animal Rescue took in the starving jackdaw, placed him with an older bird, and monitored his recovery and development.
Evidence of progress
Frank's observable growth and bonding with the older crow, as well as the rescue center's plans for his eventual release into the wild, indicate successful rehabilitation.
What we can learn
Other organizations can replicate the practice of pairing young animals with older ones for social and survival learning, enhancing rehabilitation success rates.
PERMA wellbeing profile of this story

Seligman's five pillars of wellbeing, as expressed in this story.

Positive Emotion
8
Engagement
7
Relationships
9
Meaning
8
Accomplishment
7
PERMA

Character strengths in play

Top VIA strengths this story embodies.

  • Kindness

    The older fledgling started to feed Frank—despite the fact he had only just learned to feed itself.

  • Hope

    The rescue workers hope Frank will recover sufficiently to be moved into an aviary where it can learn to fly and prepare for eventual re-release into the wild.

  • Perseverance

    Rescue volunteers worked to nurse Frank back to health after finding him in a 'sorry state' and close to death.

Try this today

Reflect on an instance when you received unexpected help or guidance. Consider reaching out to someone in your community who could benefit from your support or mentorship, fostering a connection that could lead to mutual growth and understanding.