Oriental white storks found nesting, breeding in Shanxi

Since the 1960s, the Oriental stork population had sharply declined due to excessive exploitation of natural resources and overhunting by humans. However, through dedicated efforts in habitat protection and artificial nest platform construction, their numbers have gradually recovered.

Guo Zhong, a 63-year-old wildlife protection volunteer in Datong, was quick to arrive at the scene upon hearing of the finding. With his extensive bird-watching experience, he recognized the significance of the white storks nesting and immediately began monitoring them.

Guo, also an avid bird photographer, mentioned that while he had often observed Oriental white storks during the spring and autumn migration seasons, with up to eight sightings in a year, this was the first time he had seen them nesting and breeding in the area.

"To avoid disturbing them, I consulted experts on the storks' ecological habits and used a telephoto lens from a safe distance of about 200 meters to record their activities, minimizing any close-range interference," Guo said. He observed that the two storks had a clear division of labor, taking turns incubating the eggs and foraging for food.

On the windy day they built their nest, some branches were blown away. The storks quickly fetched new materials, working together to repair and reinforce their home.

With 12 years of experience in wildlife protection advocacy and rescue, Guo's greatest wish is for Datong to establish a wildlife rescue station.