We are all familiar with the stork - a white bird with a red beak that walks across meadows on long legs, hunting for frogs. We associate this character with children's fairy tales and the stories of our parents. No one in these stories mentioned a relative of the white stork! Who is it? The black stork, which also lives in Poland.

Anyone who has seen a black stork knows that its blackness is stunning in its colours. In the sunlight it takes on hues of purple, violet, blue, green and even red. It is a truly amazing sight.

The black stork, or... the opposite of the white stork?

Although at first glance the two birds may appear similar, the black stork has many characteristics that distinguish it from its white relative. Above all, it differs not only in plumage colour, but also in behaviour and environmental preferences.

Black storks, unlike their relatives, rarely make any noises. Their characteristic sound is only the flapping of their beak, which makes them much more quiet and secretive birds. They are forest birds that avoid contact with humans. Their nests are usually found in lowlands, in areas with specific conditions - mainly extensive, damp forests, near swampy areas or bodies of water. Black storks prefer wet alder forests, where water stays for longer, creating an ideal habitat. Such a place is conducive to both their food and the peace and quiet they need to breed and raise their young.

Black stork - interesting facts to know

This means that it is prohibited to disturb these birds during this time. The protection of the black stork is essential to provide them with the right conditions for breeding and rearing their young. Thanks to these measures, the black stork population in Poland is monitored and their numbers continue to grow.

Majestic stork buildings - what are we talking about?

Black stork nests are true masterpieces of nature. They usually build them on large trees, such as pines, oaks or alders, which grow near water. Why do they choose these trees? Stork nests are more than a metre in diameter, so they choose trees that are very strong and resistant to breaking. They must provide a stable support for the nest.

Black storks also emigrate for the winter. However, it should be added that black storks return to the same nests every year, often enlarging them with new branches. Thus, as the years go by, the nests become more and more impressive and their structure even resembles natural buildings.

Partner for life, a beautiful example of monogamy  

Black storks are symbols of fidelity and devotion. They form monogamous pairs that stay together for life. Their relationship is a true journey through the different stages of life - from building a nest together to caring for the chicks.