2026-04-10T12:20:31+00:00
font
Enable Reading Mode
A-
A
A+
Shafaq News- Kirkuk
Flocks of storks have reappeared
in the skies of Kirkuk province after an absence of more than five decades,
drawing widespread attention from residents.
The stork is a large migratory
bird known for its long legs, elongated body, and sharp beak used for catching
food. It is typically white with black wings, giving it a distinctive
appearance in flight. These birds usually inhabit open
areas such as agricultural plains, wetlands, and riverbanks, where water and
food are readily available. Their diet mainly consists of insects, frogs, small
fish, and occasionally reptiles.
Storks are known for their long
seasonal migrations, traveling across continents in search of suitable climates
and food sources. They often pass through the Middle East during journeys
between Europe and Africa, using air currents to glide over long distances with
minimal effort. Their presence is widely
considered an important environmental indicator, often signaling the
availability of water and food resources, and reflecting improved ecological
conditions.
In southern Kirkuk, particularly
in the Lilan subdistrict, dozens of storks were seen flying at low altitudes
before landing in agricultural fields, a phenomenon not observed by residents
for decades.
Ali Abbas, a resident of Lilan,
told Shafaq News that the large number of storks came as a surprise. “We have
not seen them for a long time, and now they are flying in large groups as if
they have returned to settle again,” he said, adding that many residents went
out to observe the birds and take photos, with some viewing their return as a
sign of improving environmental conditions.
Lilan district director Mohammed
Wais said the return of the birds reflects positive changes, particularly in
terms of water availability and suitable open spaces that support their habitat
and reproduction.
He noted that local authorities
are closely monitoring the phenomenon, as it may indicate changes in migration
patterns or improvements in the ecosystem after years of decline. He added that
Lilan and the surrounding areas have experienced relative stability,
encouraging the return of wildlife and migratory birds. A similar scene was reported in
Tuz Khurmatu, where resident Youssef Ali Akbar said large flocks of storks were
seen flying over homes and fields, something not witnessed for many years.
He said the sight revived
memories of the region’s natural landscape, where such birds were once common
before gradually disappearing due to security conditions and climate change.
Environmental specialist Ahmed
Amer told Shafaq News that the return of storks may be linked to several
factors, including relative environmental improvement, increased food
availability, and shifts in global migration routes influenced by climate
change. He explained that storks are
sensitive to environmental changes, and their return may reflect a safer and
more stable habitat compared to previous years. He added that the presence of
shallow water and abundant insects in parts of Kirkuk may be contributing
factors.
He also noted that Iraq was once
an important station for migratory birds, but wars, desertification, and
shrinking water bodies led to the disappearance of many species. The return of
storks, he said, could signal a gradual comeback of other species if
environmental conditions continue to improve.
Observers say the phenomenon goes
beyond its visual appeal, pointing to possible shifts in ecological balance and
highlighting the need for measures to protect wildlife and preserve
biodiversity in Iraq.
