The chicks are growing before our eyes, and they no longer fit neatly under their parents' bellies. Someone's head is always sticking out or an entire chick is coming out from under a wing! The parents are changing shifts in the nest much more often now than they did during brooding.
The time has arrived to toughen the chicks so that their thermo regulation systems will develop. The current weather is good for this—not too cold. The parents surely would like to bring more food, but they are unable yet to leave the chicks unguarded. Ravens are in the neighborhood…
We've been asked what is the true color of a Black Stork—sometimes it seems they're green, other times red…
The attached picture is a group of sunbathing Black Storks where a variety of colors can be seen in their plumage. The Black Stork's feathers have a metallic gloss (especially in spring when they need to stand out). The color depends on from which direction the light falls and the light's tone. Also, the fluffiness of the feathers plays a role.
