White Storks in Geneva's country in December!

White Stork (Ciconia ciconia) on a field in Avully, Switzerland.

On December 14, a first White Stork (Ciconia ciconia) has been spotted in Geneva's countryside, by the villages of Avully and Avusy. 2 days later, they were 2! And both are still here on December 21.

Seeing White Storks in our area is pretty common during both migration seasons, but it is way more rare just before Christmas!

Driving back from France where I was birding along the Rhône river (not seeing many birds at all), I got the delightful surprise to see them from the road. Every time I see storks I am amazed by their size. These birds are impressively big: 100cm high, with a wingspan of 155-165cm.

Nature is always ready to surprise you if you keep your eyes open :)

JAG