Saarland white stork population reaches record high

The white stork population in Saarland, Germany, has reached a new record high. According to the Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union (Nabu) Saarland, 60 breeding pairs were recorded in 2026, an increase of three pairs from the previous year.

Breeding success was also exceptional, with 115 young storks successfully fledging. Experts noted that the dry and hot weather had less impact on the chicks than the prolonged periods of bad weather seen in 2025, which caused high mortality due to hypothermia.

A key factor in the growing population is a change in migration patterns. Fewer storks are undertaking the long, dangerous journey to Africa; instead, many are overwintering in southern Spain, which shortens migration routes and reduces mortality rates. Homburg remains the primary stronghold for the species in the region, hosting 25 pairs.