Does London need a delivery of white storks?

"The birds are known to thrive in urban settings on the continent, and urban rewilding organisation Citizen Zoo is conducting an appraisal on making London a "white stork-friendly city"."

"Between 2016 and 2023, there have been 472 sightings of white storks in the capital, with the numbers increasing year-on-year, conservationists said."

"Elliot Newton, co-founder and director of rewilding at Citizen Zoo, stated white storks are a "talismanic, iconic species that really do draw and attract attention.""

"Mr. Newton expressed a commitment to making London a more white stork-friendly environment, emphasizing the bird's ability to inspire people about nature."

Historically absent from London's skies, white storks may return, according to a conservation charity seeking public input. Urban rewilding organization Citizen Zoo is assessing London's capacity to become a "white stork-friendly city." Evidence shows storks thrive in urban environments. Since 2016, the species has seen a significant increase in sightings within London. Citizen Zoo reports 472 sightings from 2016 to 2023, marking a notable resurgence from just 27 sightings over the previous four decades. Efforts aim to inspire urban residents about nature and conservation.

Read at www.bbc.com