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<\/p>\nThousands of storks are crossing Istanbul\u2019s skies as the spring migration reaches its peak, reaffirming the city\u2019s position as one of the most important gateways between Africa and Europe for migratory birds.<\/p>\n
Fikret Can, an 81-year-old researcher known as \u201cStork Grandfather,\u201d said his nearly two decades of observations show that about 90% of Europe\u2019s stork population chooses the Bosporus route during migration, underscoring the city\u2019s importance despite alternative crossings such as Gibraltar.<\/p>\n
Flocks recorded in the Arnavutk\u00f6y district, particularly across wetlands and grasslands, reflect the intensity of the seasonal movement. These areas serve as temporary resting points for storks undertaking a journey that spans thousands of kilometers between Africa and Europe.<\/p>\n
\u201cIstanbul is a vital passage for storks,\u201d Can said, noting that the birds rely on thermal air currents and cannot cross large bodies of water, forcing them to follow land-based routes.<\/p>\n
The migration currently underway marks the midpoint of a long journey that begins in South Africa. Storks travel across the African continent, pass through Egypt and the Middle East, and enter T\u00fcrkiye via Hatay in southern T\u00fcrkiye. From there, they move across Anatolia to reach Istanbul before continuing through Thrace to their nesting areas in Europe.<\/p>\n
The full journey covers between 10,000 and 15,000 kilometers (6,214 to 9,320 miles), making access to safe stopover sites essential for survival. Experts say Istanbul\u2019s location along this route makes it one of only two main crossing points between Europe and Africa, alongside Gibraltar.<\/p>\n
Despite the longer distance, most European storks prefer the Istanbul corridor, reinforcing its ecological significance. During the autumn migration period, nearly 1 million storks are observed over the city\u2019s skies each year, highlighting the scale of the phenomenon.<\/p>\n
Historical records also point to a longstanding connection between Istanbul and storks. During the Ottoman era, facilities known as \u201cGurabahane-i Laklakan\u201d were established to treat injured birds, reflecting an early example of organized wildlife care.<\/p>\n
Today, conservation efforts continue to focus on protecting key habitats. Wetlands and grasslands in areas such as Sazl\u0131bosna, Arnavutk\u00f6y, Hac\u0131ma\u015fl\u0131 and the broader \u00c7atalca region remain critical for resting and nesting during migration.<\/p>\n
Can urged the public not to disturb storks during this period, especially when they land to rest in the evenings. \u201cThey need to conserve energy,\u201d he said. \u201cEven feeding them can disrupt their natural behavior.\u201d<\/p>\n
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