| Range: |
Europe, western Asia, central and southern Africa |
| Habitat: |
Grasslands, marshes, and farmland around human habitation |
| Conservation Status: |
Common |
| Scientific Name: |
Ciconia ciconia |
White storks have long been associated with the delivery of human babies, maybe because these birds themselves are such good parents. These storks mate for life and return to the same nest each year to raise three to five chicks. They build their bulky nests on trees but have adapted to human activity and utilize rooftops, chimneys and telephone poles for their nesting spots. Storks have disappeared from most of northern and western Europe. Their numbers continue to decline, most likely due to loss of their wetland habitat and pollution. Did You Know?In many parts of Europe and the Middle East the white stork is thought to bring good luck and wealth.
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