Reality show with Drago and Draga – Bulgaria's most famous stork family

There is a belief that stork nests are a true blessing for the home or village in which they are built. With the arrival of March, we eagerly begin to watch for when their inhabitants will return, as migratory birds are a symbol of spring and the renewal of life.

Since 2019, we have had the opportunity to witness the family life of Drago and Draga - two white storks that nest in the village of Dragushinovo near Samokov (Western Bulgaria). At the initiative of the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds, a camera was installed on their nest, allowing us to observe in real time the birds’ return, the laying of eggs, the hatching of the chicks, the devoted care of the parents, and the young birds’ first flights.

Drago and Draga are already back home, and the camera is broadcasting every moment of their daily life in the nest, the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds announced. “We wish Drago and Draga to raise healthy offspring this year and for us to witness precious moments such as the hatching of the chicks and their first flight,” the organization said, as quoted by BTA.

In addition to attracting a global audience of millions, observing the life of this white stork family provides valuable information about the biology and ecology of the species, as well as the threats it faces. The data will be used in planning future conservation activities, the Society reminds.

Edited by E. Karkalanova