…And Then There Was None
In the beginning, God created animals in diverse forms that would inhabit land, sea and air. That was on the 5th and 6th day. Imagine, every inch of the Garden of Eden teeming with activity - from slithering snakes to soaring doves to the swimming fish. Man’s companions have come a long way since then. So long that they have gone full circle. The once abundantly existing creatures are now facing the frightening reality of extinction. One such unfortunate animal is a bird known as the Oriental Stork (Ciconia boyciana). Currently, this is on the Endangered Status of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).
How do I spot an Oriental Stork?
It’s hard to miss them. This bird with an all-white body stands about 100cm-115cm (39inches-45inches) on its long, scrawny red legs. It has a pointed black beak as well as black winged feathers. Both sexes look the same. However, the males are slightly heftier than its female counterparts weighing in at 5.0kg as opposed to 4.7kg for the latter.
So where do I find one?
These birds may be spotted mainly in Russia and China. However, a smaller population can be found elsewhere in Asia, such as Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Philippines, Burma, India and Bangladesh. They usually frequent the wetlands, river valleys, marshes and lowland forests.
What about their lifestyle?
The Oriental Stork builds its nest in tall forest trees at a safe distance from human beings. These can hold about 2-6 eggs at a time. Ironically, though this bird is quite aggressive to other members of its own family, it can be quite jittery when held captive. For their diet, they feed on insects, mammals, fish, small reptiles and amphibians.
How come we’re losing them?
Sadly, man is mostly at fault why this species is endangered. Deforestation and draining water out of wetlands for farming are the major causes. However, there are other aggravating circumstances surrounding this issue. One, the reclaiming of wetlands in the Yangtze province has decreased the homes for these birds during the winter. Two, overfishing, especially in many wintering areas of China. In a study done, there had been an extremely high mortality rate during the winter as the birds have to travel great distances during this time. Third, hunting and placing of the animal in zoos in Russia and China. Lastly, the presence of dams around the Amur River in China may affect the habitat area. However, since this bird feeds on fish, it will be less vulnerable to the changes in the level of the water as compared to other animals.
If they’re lucky…
These birds have an average life expectancy of 48 years for those held in captivity. For others in the wild, they may not live as long.
What do we do now?
Currently, conservation measures are implemented in the affected areas. These birds are strictly guarded by laws in China, Russia, Japan, North Korea, South Korea, Hong Kong and Taiwan. In addition, there have been special reserves built in the last two mentioned countries. Furthermore, caretakers have tried captive breeding to increase the population. However, the male bird’s aggressive attitude towards its mates leaves much to be desired. Another step suggested is habitat creation. Trees will be planted near the feeding areas of the breeding grounds.
In hindsight…
We have a problem and we know it. It’s staring at us straight in the eye. The Oriental Stork is not the only one facing this danger. There are thousands of other species on the verge of extinction. Stop passing the buck and do your part. Join or support a group that furthers conservation efforts like World Wildlife Fund, Wildlife Conservation Society, Save the Whales, Pandas International and the like.
It’s not yet too late.
Oriental Stork (Ciconia boyciana)
