Storks used to leave Europe at the end of the summer to winter in warmer countries, and return in February. However with global warming, fewer storks are making that long journey, and most now stay in Southern Europe in places like Portugal, Spain and Greece.
For a long time, the stork has been a protected species worldwide. Here in Portugal we think it is safe to say they are also highly respected. Storks build their nest high up and you can see them perched all around Portugal on tall chimneys, telegraph poles, and even church steeples!
The sight of a white stork in full flight is one of the most amazing things to see in Portugal. They can reach an impressive 1 meter in height, and 2 meters in wingspan, and it can be quite daunting to be out on your bike and see them flying over you - casting a huge shadow on the ground!
Breeding time is from the beginning of April, and in the last few months we have seen lots of little chicks in their nests being supervised by their parents.
One of our favourite things to hear is the impressively loud bill-clattering, the sound the birds make when they open and close their beaks to communicate with each other. It's a beautiful sight, and we recommend you watch out for them when you are in Portugal - they're hard to miss!
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