elatustasemele

Elatustasemele, also known as the *Eastern White Stork* (*Ciconia ciconia*), is a large wading bird native to Europe, western Asia, and parts of Africa. It is one of the most recognizable birds in its range due to its striking appearance, characterized by a predominantly white body, black wings, and a long, slender neck and legs. The species is often associated with good fortune and fertility in folklore, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe, where it has long been a symbol of new beginnings.

Elatustasemele breeds in open habitats such as wetlands, meadows, and agricultural landscapes, often nesting in trees or on man-made structures like church steeples and buildings. Its diet consists mainly of small vertebrates, including amphibians, reptiles, and insects, which it hunts by wading through shallow water or standing still before striking at prey. The bird is known for its impressive migration patterns, traveling long distances between its breeding grounds in Europe and wintering areas in Africa, a journey that can span thousands of kilometers.

Conservation efforts for the Eastern White Stork have been important due to population declines caused by habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. While the species is not currently classified as endangered, some local populations have faced challenges in recent decades. Protection measures, including the preservation of wetlands and reduced pesticide use, have helped stabilize numbers in certain regions.

Elatustasemele plays a cultural role in many societies, often featured in art, literature, and traditional beliefs. In Estonia, where it is commonly referred to as *elutustamele* (meaning "life-bringer"), the bird is celebrated as a harbinger of spring and a symbol of renewal. Its presence is sometimes seen as an omen of good luck, particularly for families expecting children. The species continues to be a subject of interest in both ecological and cultural studies.