Chingiz put off on his journey (Monday September 27, 2004)
He did take his time! We have been waiting and waiting since the end of August when Altynai flew from Ob to Syrdaria in the south of Kazakhstan... We have seen it through today because the data arrived illustrating that the first Mongolian stork Chingiz started his way to the wintering grounds.
Chingiz flew 475 kilometres yesterday. That is pretty good, although not a record. The main thing for us is which direction Chingiz set out. He is aiming south-south-eastward (see map) and so far it looks like he could spend the winter in southern China. Of course, he may still change his course, but I would not bet a rap that he would fly to India...
We can, however, expect that Tuya - the second Mongolian stork with transmitter - will start her way soon. But do not forget neither Altynai. She stopped near Syrdaria one year ago on her way to the wintering grounds and this year during her journey to the nesting place. Also Iristu stayed in the same area last year and Petr two years ago. It's probably a very interesting area not only for the black storks but for all migratory birds as well. Kazakhstan ornithologists, nevertheless, have in fact no information about it. That's why we want to get to know it some closer with prof. Kovshar in the following days - together with Lubos Peske, we are going to fly to Kazakhstan the day after tomorrow morning...