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Bird✓ Protected species

Stork

Ciconia ciconia

✓What to do NOW

  1. 1Very large bird: eye protection needed (goggles, mask)
  2. 2Cover the head with a large cloth to calm it
  3. 3Two people ideally: one restrains the wings, the other holds the neck
  4. 4Transport crate or large basket — not cardboard boxes
  5. 5CRAS with experience in large birds

✗NEVER do this

  • ✗Do not approach from the front — the beak can cause serious injury
  • ✗Do not attempt alone if inexperienced
  • ✗Do not give food

⚠ Important note

In Italy the white stork is recovering but still vulnerable. The leading cause of death is electrocution on medium-voltage power lines. If found near pylons: very likely electrocuted — possible one-sided paralysis, eye injuries. Immediate veterinary emergency.

⚖ Legal protection

Protected by the Birds Directive (Annex I) and Law 157/1992.

Also known as

white storkblack stork

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