Karula National Park 2/ Must toonekurg 4

[marika.solo]

7202



Urmas is saving what is still possible. Apparently, the rain will continue, and the water will rise as well. Then the young birds will have to accept the frozen fish on the ground near the statue.

[marika.solo]

August 23
Hello everyone

Tibu: 70 days old (Tibu was released near the fish basket near Karula's nest):
- forced maiden flight (ringing day): 17.08 in the evening 64 days old
- forced maiden flight (rescuing day): 19.08 in the evening 66 days old

1/ Chicks become capable of flight at 68–72 days of age (maiden flight). The timing of the maiden flight depends on several factors. (Urmas Sellis)
- Estimated MAIDEN FLIGHT (68–72 days): 21–26 Aug for Tibu.
CHICK FLEDGED (FORCED FLIGHT/RINGING) on 17.08.2026 IN THE EVENING 64 DAYS OLD.

2/ By tracking 35 tagged chicks, Polish researchers found that young storks left the nest permanently at an average age of 87 days, with the latest departure recorded at 108 days. Before their definitive departure for migration, fledglings usually fly within an average distance of about 200 m from the nest. As they grow older, this distance gradually increases to about 500 m. (Dr Anderwald)
- Estimated DEFINITIVE DEPARTURE (87 days): 8 Sep for Tibu.

3/ Survival is higher in chicks that remain at the nest for a longer period after fledging. They gradually become independent while still receiving food from their parents. For another 2–4 weeks after the maiden flight, they may return to the nest to rest or spend the night. (Dr Strazds)
- Estimated end of the regular post-fledging nest period (about 2 weeks after the maiden flight): 2 Sep for Tibu.

4/ During the post-fledging period, young storks mainly practise flying, landing and manoeuvring close to the nest. According to Prof. Zieliński, they learn to locate feeding sites and forage independently only after their definitive departure from the nest during migration.

7202: 93 days old
- maiden flight: 29.07 - 67 days old

[marika.solo]

Urmas &co solve problem








It is truly remarkable how much care and dedication Urmas and his colleagues have put into supporting Tibu and the other youngster. Restoring the fish basket after the heavy rains and keeping it supplied with fish gives these young storks a valuable helping hand at such a critical stage. Thank you, Urmas & colleagues, for your extraordinary commitment and for giving them every possible chance!

[marika.solo]

[marika.solo]

"It is still raining, and both chicks are still in the same place.
They had a good meal at 12 o'clock and are now resting on the shore.
Currently, 4 cameras have been installed to monitor what is happening at the Karula BS feeding site and to prevent additional food from being brought while they are there.
Fortunately, TIBU can also fly and avoid dangers on the ground if necessary. So, apart from additional feeding, no further intervention is necessary. "