White storks conquer Bautzen: 105 breeding pairs celebrate the record year!

White storks conquer Bautzen: 105 breeding pairs celebrate the record year!

In the picturesque district of Bautzen, there is reason to be happy: In 2024, proud 105 breeding pairs of white storks were counted there. This number is not only remarkable, but is even one of the highest stocks of these elegant birds in Saxony. According to the white stork report Saxony, 82 couples have successfully raised their fledged young birds, so that a total of 205 young animals rose into the air. With a breeding success of 1.95 boys per couple, this value is also above the Saxon average.

The numbers not only confirm the revitalization of the storks in the region, there were also seven new settlements with breeding experiments. Where did these new nesting places come about? Among other things in Baruth, Doerschütz near Neschwitz, Milkel-Droben, Grubschütz, small förstchen and stuff/Klix. In order to support this remarkable increase, new nesting aids were built and old hearts were renovated, supported by committed residents and the EnSO company.

A look at the international stork situation

not only in Germany, but in many parts of Europe, the white storks are on the rise. The nabu reports that the 8th international white stork count is currently running. While the first results already exist from 40 out of 55 participating countries, the preliminary number of breeding pairs has also increased to 330,000. This number graciously made available to a positive overall picture. The final results are expected by autumn 2025 and promise exciting insights into the spread of this species.

Preliminary reports from countries such as Ukraine, Turkey, Libya and Germany show a flourishing stork population and indicate that the measures for maintenance are active.

habitat and reproduction of the white storks

For the young white storks, also known as the scientific name Ciconia Ciconia , these successes mean a promising future. Your way of life is particularly adaptable: you will find your living space in open landscapes, wetland countries and river. Did you know that your nests can achieve an impressive weight of up to two tons from branches?

Reproduction begins between April and June, and a stork can lay between one and seven eggs - with usually two to four are the rule. The breeding season is 30 to 32 days. On average, the mother and father are there for their boys for three months before they go their own way. So much love and care are necessary so that the young animals become strong and independent.

The species is widespread and is particularly protected in Germany, while it has different levels of risk in other countries. In Bavaria, too, we observe a significant increase in breeding pairs - from 52 in the 1980s to over 700 in 2017 and a record value of 1180 couples in 2023. It is obvious: the white storks have proven a good hand for successful reproduction in recent years, and monitoring of the stocks remains a central component of nature conservation efforts in Bavaria.

Overall, the white stork shows itself as a symbol of nature conservation and ecological stability. Whether in Bautzen or elsewhere in Europe, the future of these majestic birds seems to be promising - thanks to committed people and effective protective measures.