Black Stork in Dordogne, France (1 Viewer)

Not sure if this is notable or not ......but just in case.

Sat by the pool near Terrasson in the Dordogne and saw this stork fly over, quite high up. Took a quick peep through the bins expecting to see a White stork, but it was certainly a Black one. See photo snatched below.

The distribution map in my Collins guide suggests they are restricted to the Loire valley and the NE/Ardennes regions. Other maps show even more restricted range in France. It does seem the area is on the migration route to Spain and Africa though.

Anyone have a better informed view? Certainly wasn't expected and made my day!

Mick

Yep, bang on the migration route down to Spain, the Straits of Gibraltar, and on to NW Africa. And now is when they're starting to migrate. They're not overly numerous in France but are increasing; definitely worth reporting to the local bird recorder (assuming there is one!).