In the Chernobyl zone, scientists discovered chicks of the black stork, a species that is considered one of the most mysterious and least studied in Ukraine. About this reported Chernobyl radiation and ecological biosphere reserve.
Due to their cautious behavior, these birds rarely appear to the eyes of people, so for a long time it was possible to estimate their number and distribution only approximately.
“In previous years, 25 to 27 pairs of black storks nested on the territory of the Chernobyl reserve. However, today, due to military operations, access to a large part of the territories is limited, and therefore it is currently impossible to establish the actual number of this species.” – says the message.
The reserve’s researchers, together with the representative of the “Ciconia-Ukraina” project Oleksandr Panchuk, inspected the nests with six chicks. Birds were ringed and basic biometric measurements were taken. This method is safe and extremely important for studying seasonal movements, life spans and wintering sites of birds.
The rings are made of light materials and do not disturb the birds, and the procedure itself is performed quickly and carefully. Modern rings have individual markings, which allows you to recognize individuals in nature without the need to catch them.
“If you are lucky enough to see a bird with a ring, take a picture of it and pass the information on to ornithologists. Each such encounter is a valuable contribution to the preservation and study of one of the most mysterious birds of the Ukrainian fauna.”, the scientists explained.
Photo: tsn.ua
