First wild stork chicks to hatch in the UK in centuries expected this year

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The first wild stork chicks to hatch in Britain for centuries are expected to emerge next month after three pairs of the huge white birds built nests in West Sussex.

Disdaining platforms constructed especially for them, the storks have created their stick nests in the heights of oak trees on the Knepp estate, the centre for a reintroduction project.

White storks are traditionally thought to bring fertility and good luck but have been extinct as breeding birds in Britain since 1416, or possibly during the English civil war.

“I love the storks’ association with rebirth and bringing new life. They are such a hopeful symbol for rewilding.”

More than 100 birds are now living wild and in fenced pens at Knepp and nearby sites in a reintroduction scheme masterminded by Burrell and Tree, who have seen wildlife roar back onto their rewilded farm.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/apr/26/uk-first-wild-stork-chicks-hatch-centuries