Thoughts on storks

The University of Brighton is leading a study to gauge the public’s views of the recent and ongoing reintroduction of the white stork in England.

Anyone who lives in the UK and is aged 18 or above is invited to take part in this study by completing a short online questionnaire exploring their current awareness, knowledge and attitudes towards the white stork and its reintroduction. To obtain a cross-section of public opinion, this study welcomes all views and knowledge-levels.

The white stork was reintroduced as a breeding bird to England recently, with the first eggs hatching in May 2020.

Dr Rachel White, Senior Lecturer in Ecology & Conservation, is leading this independent and impartial research. Findings will be shared with the White Stork Project team.

Dr White said: “A key focus of the study is to understand why perceptions vary and whether they differ between communities living close to the release site and the wider UK public. Your valuable responses, in turn, will help inform decisions regarding the future management of the white stork reintroduction project for the mutual benefit of people and nature.”

The results will form part of a long-term study to track if and how perceptions of the white stork change over time.

To take the survey and test your knowledge of the white stork, click here: https://brighton.onlinesurveys.ac.uk/perceptions-of-white-stork-reintroduction. As a thank you for taking part, those who complete the survey can enter a prize draw for a chance to win one of ten £20 gift cards.

For more information on the research, please contact Dr White via email.

The survey will remain open until Sunday 15th November.