Wild White Stork Reintroduction Progress

White storks were reintroduced to England in 2019 by the White Stork Project and have produced naturally fledged chicks for the first time in centuries. Recovery depends on habitat and public support.

Key Facts

White storks were extinct in the UK for approximately 600 years before the reintroduction programme
The Knepp Estate in Sussex hosts the core of the English reintroduction population
Naturally fledged white stork chicks were raised in England for the first time in modern history in 2020
White storks require wetland and mixed farmland with abundant invertebrate and small vertebrate prey
Public engagement and positive reception of storks is essential to community-based conservation success

Welfare Considerations

White stork welfare in the reintroduced population depends on suitable wetland habitat, freedom from disturbance and sufficient prey availability. The welfare of each individual in a small reintroduced population carries exceptional significance.

What You Can Do

Support the White Stork Project and Knepp Rewilding trust financially
Visit Knepp Estate to observe white storks and support conservation tourism
Advocate for rewilding and mixed farming landscapes that support white stork habitat requirements