THE rare sight of white storks spotted flying over the Isle of Wight in recent weeks, has prompted excitement among local birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Scroll down for video by Sienna Anderson
The large and distinctive white and black birds are still a relatively unusual sight on the Island, making each appearance a noteworthy moment for residents — and a genuine treat for keen 'twitchers'.
Recent reports include a group of three storks in trees and top of buildings along the Island coast.
Storks fly far and wide to feed.
Omnivores and opportunists, they seek out small mammals, earthworms, snails, crickets and other large insects in water-meadows, grasslands and arable fields.
The birds, which are ringed, are thought to be linked to reintroduction efforts at the Knepp Estate in West Sussex, where white storks are now breeding successfully.
While sightings remain infrequent, they reflect a wider resurgence of the species across southern England, according to the Knepp rewilding project.
As the stork population grows, some birds are ranging further along the south coast, with the Isle of Wight conveniently placed along their travel routes.
With thanks to local wildlife enthusiasts Lynda Chandler and Sienna Anderson for providing some fabulous images.
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