In the last couple of days there has been a great deal of excitement at World Wildlife WWT Slimbridge's Great Crane Project.
Two out of four birds which have been visiting the WWT reserve regularly in the last few months have started to show signs of nest building.
Initially all four birds - three females and one male - were helping to gather nesting material, but as the nest took on a greater form, the a male and female pair chased away the other two females before returning and continuing with the nest building.
The potentially breeding pair have been given the nicknames Chris and Monty.
The crane's surrogate parents are Amy King and Harry Nevard, whose job it is to nurture the cranes until adulthood
On the building of the nest, Amy said: "The pair are from a group released in 2010 and at three years old are now at breeding age.
"We are exceptionally lucky that they have chosen to do this right in front of one of the bird hides so we can watch the process without disturbing them."
Despite the excitement however this nesting behaviour doesn't mean the birds will definitely lay eggs, let alone hatch them out successfully
Harry commented: "The cranes are still young and naive, but it is very encouraging that they are at least starting to practise breeding behaviour. It is an exciting start to yet another chapter in the Great Crane Project".
For anyone in Somerset, keep your eyes peeled for any signs of breeding behaviour in birds down there and let the Great Crane Project know of any apparent nesting activity.
Images taken by James Lees, one of the reserve wardens at WWT Slimbridge. Chris (the female) adding material to the nest, and then the pair (Chris and Monty) after having chased the others away.
Webiste: Great Crane Project
Video: Crame mgration over south west France
Comments