The Triumphant Return of Storks to Saxony-Anhalt
The first storks have made their long-awaited return to the verdant landscapes of Saxony-Anhalt, shrugging off the recent wintry spell with admirable resilience. Reports have emerged from Mieste in the Drömling and Oranienbaum, where occupied nests have been observed, indicating the arrival of these iconic birds. These nests are renowned for welcoming storks remarkably early each year.
The majority of storks are anticipated to touch down in March, with their arrival extending into April, influenced by the distance of their migratory routes. Michael Kaatz, a renowned stork expert from the Storchenhof Loburg Bird Observatory in Jerichower Land, shed light on the exceptional breeding season experienced by these cherished birds in the previous year.
A Banner Year for Storks
Kaatz reported the presence of approximately 780 stork pairs in Saxony-Anhalt, an impressive figure that included an astounding 640 pairs successfully raising offspring. This exceptional success rate, the likes of which have not been witnessed in at least two decades, culminated in the hatching of roughly 1,680 baby storks. Kaatz attributes this remarkable trend to a gradual increase in the stork population. He believes that the primary driver behind this growth is the shortening of migratory routes.
Shorter Migrations, Greater Success
"Storks have discovered Spain as a suitable overwintering destination," Kaatz explained. "The favorable climate and ample food sources in Spain eliminate the need for them to venture as far as North Africa." In Saxony-Anhalt, some storks have even opted to forgo migration altogether, while in Baden-Württemberg and Hesse, hundreds now remain during the colder months.
Kaatz emphasized that the frosty temperatures, including nighttime lows dipping below -10 degrees Celsius and snowfall, pose no significant obstacles for storks. "They are well-equipped to withstand these conditions," he said. Only in extreme cold, when temperatures drop below -20 degrees Celsius, might storks risk losing toes due to frostbite, but such occurrences are not life-threatening. Upon their return, storks possess sufficient reserves and resilience to endure brief periods without food while maintaining their body heat.
Warmer Days Ahead
Kaatz anticipates milder temperatures in the coming days, providing further respite for the returning storks.
Storks Flourish in Neighboring Saxony
Beyond Saxony-Anhalt, storks are establishing their presence in neighboring Saxony. The Sachsenstorch team has documented early arrivals in Schkeuditz near Leipzig and near Eilenburg. An expert from the Naturschutzinstitut in Dresden reported that 2024 marked a record-breaking year, with the observation of 471 breeding pairs and an impressive 921 chicks.
Conclusion
The return of storks to Saxony-Anhalt and Saxony heralds the dawn of a new season, filled with hope and renewal. The shortening of migratory routes and the milder conditions in overwintering areas have played a significant role in the remarkable success of these iconic birds. Their resilience, as evidenced by their ability to withstand winter’s harshness, further underscores their enduring presence in our natural world.
