Freemaps

STORKS are springing up all over! After nearly becoming extinct in the Algarve because of over hunting, the storks have made a comeback. They had become endangered because the farmers believed they were eating their crop seed and accordingly were hunting them. After it was proved that storks actually lived on harmful bugs and small sea creatures the storks were given a helping hand and were protected by law, as were the tall chimneys they nested on. It is now illegal to pull down the tall chimneys that become the platforms for the storks homes.  

 In the spring the birds begin rebuilding their nests and every year the nests get bigger and heavier. They come back to the same nest every year. The spring is also their mating time. Most Storks mate for life. The Marabou Stork has a wingspan of 3.2 metres (10.5 feet) and weighs up to 8kg (18lbs) and joins the Condor in having the widest wingspan of all living land birds.   

 Normally they have 2 or 3 babies Sparrows often live in the bottom part of the huge Stork nest. Historically in many countries storks were considered to be good luck, and were a symbol of babies arrival! Watch these graceful creatures as the soar above you, landing in their impossibly balanced nests. And marvel at their beauty and grace......as they soar on the air currents above you!