Liège, Belgium – An unusually large flock of white storks, numbering around thirty, has descended upon the village of Hermalle-sous-Huy in the province of Liège, Belgium, surprising local residents. The unexpected arrival was first noted on August 10, 2024.
While the area is known to host other bird species, including black storks adn herons, such a important gathering of white storks is unprecedented, according to local resident Vincent, who preferred not to disclose his last name. “There is a nest of black storks in the village, also herons, but white storks, I had never seen that. Sometimes there is one or two, but such a group, never. It’s quite impressive,” he stated.
The white stork (Ciconia ciconia) is a migratory bird that typically breeds in Europe and western Asia,wintering in Africa. Their presence in Hermalle-sous-Huy during the summer months suggests a potential deviation from their usual migratory patterns. The birds are currently congregating in fields near the village, attracting attention from birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
The reason for this unusual congregation remains unknown. Vincent speculated that the birds might potentially be seeking relief from warmer temperatures elsewhere, prompting them to seek a cooler climate in the region. However, ornithologists suggest other factors could be at play, including changes in food availability or disruptions to their customary migratory routes.
White storks have experienced population declines in parts of their range due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and other environmental factors. Conservation efforts, including habitat restoration and the provision of artificial nesting platforms, have helped to stabilize and even increase populations in some areas. Belgium, specifically the Flemish region, has seen a resurgence in white stork populations in recent years due to reintroduction programs. The arrival of this flock in Liège province is a noteworthy event, potentially indicating an expansion of their range.
