The symbol of Alsace, the white stork is part of local people's cultural heritage in this part of France. Stork nests are regularly found on the roofs of houses, church bell towers and other towers in the towns and villages of Alsace.
This majestic bird with a long, pointed beak and black and white plumage is a long-distance migrant which heads for milder southern climes at the end of autumn. Its return to Alsace for nesting in February or March heralds the arrival of spring. The stork particularly appreciates this region's prolific natural environment, with its wet meadows and pastures providing an abundant food supply, including amphibians and small aquatic animals.
This beautiful wading bird, thought to bring good luck to the house where it makes its nest, is a protected species. In Hunawihr, in Haut-Rhin, the stork and otter reintroduction centre, now known as NaturOparC, is a large animal park covering 5 hectares which works to preserve endangered local species, including the white stork. It's a must-see...
