The Iconic White Storks of Croatia: The Love Story of Klepetan and Malena

White storks: a bird like no other

White storks are among the most beloved birds in Europe, symbolizing luck, fidelity, and renewal. Every spring, these elegant creatures migrate from Africa to their nesting grounds across Europe, including Croatia, where they are especially cherished. The white stork is at risk because its survival is closely linked to human activity and wetland habitats rich in food. It is estimated that there are around 700,000 storks worldwide. In Croatia, between 1,100 and 1,300 pairs nest. In the Zagreb County area, more than 250 white stork nests have been recorded. The sight of a stork perched on a rooftop or a tall pole is common in Croatian villages, and many people take pride in protecting these majestic birds. 

The Special Place of Storks in Croatia

In Croatia, white storks are more than just another bird species—they are an integral part of rural life and folklore. Many villagers build platforms or nests to encourage storks to settle in their areas. Schools and local organizations often engage in conservation efforts to protect these birds, especially as modern urbanization and environmental changes threaten their habitats. The village of Čigoć, known as the “European Stork Village,” is a prime example of how Croatians embrace these birds, boasting more nesting storks than human inhabitants.

White storks are monogamous and known for their long migrations. Every year, they travel thousands of kilometers between their wintering grounds in Africa and their breeding sites in Europe. Their return in spring is seen as a sign of renewal and prosperity. No storks have captured the hearts of the Croatian people quite like Klepetan and Malena, a pair whose extraordinary love story has spanned over two decades.

Klepetan and Malena: A Love Story Like No Other

The story of Klepetan and Malena began in the small Croatian village of Brodski Varoš, where Malena, a female stork, was injured by a hunter’s bullet, leaving her unable to fly. She was rescued by a kindhearted school janitor, Stjepan Vokić, who built a nest for her on his property and took care of her through the winters when other storks migrated south. In 2001, Malena met Klepetan, a male stork who became her lifelong mate.

What makes their story remarkable is that every year, despite the vast distance and challenges of migration, Klepetan would return to Malena in March, marking the start of another breeding season. As he spent his winters in Africa, Malena stayed behind, unable to follow him. But each spring, as the days grew warmer, the village—and the entire country—would eagerly anticipate his return. The moment Klepetan arrived back at their nest was celebrated like a national event, with media outlets covering the reunion.

Over the years, the devoted pair raised dozens of chicks together. Stjepan Vokić continued to take care of Malena, sheltering her in a warm space during the harsh winters and feeding her daily. Meanwhile, Klepetan never failed to return, proving his unwavering commitment to his partner. Their love story became a symbol of faithfulness and resilience, touching people far beyond Croatia’s borders.‍

A Timeless Tale of Love and Devotion

In recent years, as Klepetan grew older, his returns became less predictable, causing concern among his many admirers in Croatia. Sadly in 2021, Malena died of old age. At the time of her death she was not alone as Klepetan was with her, until the very end. Fast forward to 2025, Klepetan is now about 36 years old and he still visits Malena’s grave that sits under an apple tree in Stjepan Vokić’s garden. This has been deemed as very unusual for animal behaviour but that is just another showcase of the extraordinary nature of white storks.

In a world where stories of devotion are increasingly rare, these two storks have left an indelible mark on the hearts of many, proving that love truly knows no boundaries. 

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