Oriental Stork Preserve Konotori no Sato

Oriental storks preserve in Noda City

Kounotori no Sato, an oriental stork preserve and nursery brings back oriental storks to the rural landscape of Japan. The storks, extinct since the 1970s, have been bred from captive storks and then released into the skies over Chiba Prefecture. So far, nine storks have been fledged and released from the fascility, and many of the them range through neighboring prefecture. Some of them return to the preserve where they were bred, so you might have a chance to see them in Noda City. The interpretative displays, through posters, a small aquarium, videos and models, explain the life cycle, habitat and history of the oriental storks. Models of storks demonstrating their size and shape aid bird watchers with identification. The viewing area is in front of a pond and meadow, with a "fish bowl" so visitors can see the storks up close. Guides, both Noda City residents and wildlife researchers, are available to answer your questions about the storks' lifestyle. There are origami models of the storks that children can fold. A display of picture books and wildlife guides spark interest in the storks, and nature and bird watching. For details of releases, check コウノトリの里 on Noda City's home page.