A Pair of Storks Found in Our Village!
Japanese stork is the bird classified as endangered and designated as the bird of Hyogo Prefecture.
These stork were extinct once, with the last confirmed sighting of a male in 1965. However, thanks to the efforts of the people in Toyooka City, who changed their agricultural methods and environment for its protection, I've heard that they grew in numbers and are now appearing further south.
In Tamba Sasayama City, there have been reports of sightings, and I had been hoping to see one. About ten days ago, a local farmer informed me, "Storks have come to Takakura!" and even showed me photos. The images featured in this blog are from his collection.
I had heard that storks are large enough to be easily recognized, but it didn't click to me until I actually saw one. To my surprise, they are indeed huge and have a distinct appearance!
I'm not well-acquainted with their ecology, so I'm not sure if they are just temporarily visiting or if they might settle down. However, I've seen them resting on utility poles and two of them perched partway up a small mountain. I can't help but fantasize about them staying here permanently.
Blessed with green mountains and trees, clean water, and wild birds like herons and pheasants, it's incredible to now also have storks! I find myself reflecting on whether this is what Japan's landscapes used to look like.
Now, it's the season for fireflies. We are fortunate to enjoy the sight of fireflies dancing in the river in front of our house every year. I hope many more people can experience this way of life, appreciate the beauty of Japan, and feel in their hearts the importance of preserving it for the children and future generations.
Please come and visit us! 🤗🥰
P.S. According to the website linked here, it seems that one of the two storks is female, named Nyu-chan. Are they getting together as mates? 🥰