The white stork (Ciconia ciconia) became extinct as a UK breeding bird over 600 years ago. A reintroduction program at Knepp Estate in Sussex has established a growing free-living population, with the birds navigating welfare challenges from migration, supplemental feeding dependency, and urban encounters.
Reintroduced storks face welfare challenges unique to species transitioning from captivity to the wild. Birds released without migration experience may become habituated to supplemental feeding, reducing their ability to forage naturally. Young birds following incorrect migration routes risk starvation or electrocution on power lines. UK-wintering storks are monitored for body condition, as reduced insect availability in winter may cause nutritional stress. Veterinary care for injured birds — including lead poisoning from ingested fishing weights and road collisions — is provided through wildlife rehabilitation networks. Long-term success depends on wild-born birds developing full natural behaviours.