Biological and physicochemical properties of the nests of White Stork Ciconia ciconia reveal soil entirely formed, modified and maintained by birds.

The physiological and behavioural activities of animals have far-reaching impacts on the characteristics and functioning of soil. This includes vertebrates, which are capable of modifying the physicochemical and biochemical properties of soil. To date, however, no species is known to be responsible for the entire process of soil formation, modification and maintenance.