This trip has not just been all about visting churches and un-earthing old art--there have been WHITE STORKS everywhere!
Estonia, where we are today, is the northern reach of their breeding area. They are beautiful birds with enormous wingspans. They weigh up to 10 pounds, are about 3-1/2 feet tall and have wing spans that reach almost 8 feet.
Apparently, they bring good luck and seem very sociable, nesting near farm houses.
I got too close to this one and h
e took flight--I'll spare you the pictures of the struggle to get his 10 pound body off the ground, but once it was off the ground, it was grace all the way.Soon, I saw him again perched on top of the highest, biggest, sturdiest nest that I have ever seen.
