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Klepetan, a male stork from South Africa, is a testament to the success of long-distance relationships. Every year, he travels more than 8000 miles to reunite with his feathered partner. According to those familiar with their story, this remarkable bond has lasted for at least 16 years.
As reported by Travel + Leisure, Malena, the female stork, was discovered injured near a pond after being shot by a hunter. Stjepan Vokić, a Croatian janitor, took her in and cared for her until she recovered. “If I hadn’t rescued her from the pond, foxes would have surely taken her,” Vokić explains. “Since I altered her destiny, I now feel responsible for her well-being.”
During her recovery, Vokić observed a male stork visiting Malena at the same time each year. He named the visitor “Klepetan” after the distinctive clattering sound storks make with their beaks. Unlike most storks, which do not always mate for life, Klepetan and Malena share a unique bond. Vokić celebrates their annual reunion by preparing a bucket of fish to welcome Klepetan’s return.
Thanks to a tracking ring, the devoted stork’s location has been traced to the vicinity of Cape Town when he’s not with Malena. His journey, lasting approximately a month, underscores his unwavering commitment to reuniting with his partner and their offspring.
However, concerns have arisen that the tale of these lovebirds might be nearing its conclusion. The stork that visited Malena in March this year may not be Klepetan. As shared in a Facebook post by Vokić’s son Dario in a private group dedicated to the pair, “The real Klepetan likely didn’t show up. The current stork is behaving oddly—he came for food but then disappeared for two days.” This behavior is highly unusual for Klepetan, who is reportedly “inseparable” from Malena during his visits.
As of the latest update, there has been no confirmed sighting of Klepetan in 2019. Some speculate that he may have succumbed to old age. “This is the natural order. Klepetan fulfilled his role. Last year, I noticed he seemed extremely fatigued when migration season began,” Vokić shared with the Croatia Times.
Despite this, their story remains a source of inspiration. To learn more, watch this animated video that beautifully recounts the history of their extraordinary love.
