13 years of loyalty: Yaren stork bids farewell to Bursa fisherman
Yaren and Nazlı in Eskikaraağaç Leylek Village, Bursa, Türkiye. (Photo by Alper Tüydeş)
The stork Yaren, which is a beloved symbol of friendship between nature and humanity in Türkiye, has once again set off on its annual migration from Eskikaraagac Leylek Village in Bursa, Türkiye.
The stork, known for its unique bond with 68-year-old fisherman Adem Yilmaz, left with its mate Nazli as winter approaches.
13-year-old bond captivating millions
For the past 13 years, Yaren the stork has returned every spring to the small village of Eskikaraagac, nestled in Bursa’s Karacabey district.
The friendship between Yaren and Adem Yilmaz, which began in 2011 when the stork first landed on his fishing boat, has been a source of fascination and inspiration for many.
Yilmaz shared his thoughts on the departure, saying: “This year, Yaren and its mate Nazli arrived on March 5. They laid eggs, and after two months, the hatchlings emerged. Unfortunately, only one of the four hatchlings survived. The remaining one started its migration a month ago, and on August 26, Yaren and Nazli also departed.”
Our bond has grown stronger over these 13 years. It wasn’t easy to gain Yaren’s trust, as storks are naturally wild. But by treating it gently and with care, I managed to build a lasting friendship. It’s always sad to see them go, but I hope we’ll be reunited in March.
Fisherman Adem Yilmaz
Impact on Eskikaraagac and Türkiye’s stork village
Yaren Stork has played a significant role in putting Eskikaraagac Leylek Village on the map as Türkiye’s sole representative in the European Stork Villages network.
The village mukhtar, Abdullah Hizli, emphasized the impact Yaren has had on the community, noting: “Yaren Stork has become a key figure in promoting our village and contributing to its economic growth.”
“Visitors from abroad and across Türkiye come here, drawn by the story of Yaren and Adem. Thanks to the camera system installed by Karacabey Municipality, people can watch the stork’s nest live 24/7. If any issues arise, viewers promptly inform us,” Hizli added.
Emotional departure of Yaren noted by many
Nature photographer Alper Tuydes shared the news of Yaren’s departure on social media platform X, (formerly known as Twitter) writing: “Yaren Stork, whose arrival is followed by millions every year, set out on a migration journey yesterday with his wife Nazlı. Uncle Adem also announced their departure today.”
“Doves, starlings and crows have already taken to the abandoned nest. Let them fly away in an instant, leave easily and come back again,” he added.
Yaren Stork’s story continues to touch the hearts of millions, and like many, Adem Yılmaz looks forward to the stork’s return next spring, hoping to renew their unique bond for another year.
