The start of the migration: Storks head to Africa
At the Poda Conservation Center near Burgas, one of the most impressive natural phenomena has begun – the autumn bird migration. The first flocks of storks have already been spotted in the sky, having set off on their long journey to winter in Africa.
"A sure sign that the autumn migration has begun," report the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds (BSPB).
How do birds manage a flight of over 8,000 km?
The storks face an incredible journey. To conserve their energy, they use:
- Warm ascending air currents, which help them soar and save strength.
- Established migration routes, which have connected Europe and Africa for millennia.
Safety for the feathered travelers
In addition to natural challenges, the birds also face human-made threats. The BSPB reports significant success in species conservation: after securing power distribution lines in the area of the Burgas lakes, mortality among the birds has dropped drastically.
Every nature lover is welcome at the Poda Conservation Center to witness this majestic phenomenon in person.