Each year, as winter fades, Latvians look for spring's first messengers. The arrival of every bird from their long trip to the south is important, but especially dear to Latvians is the presence of storks. The white stork has many meanings in Latvian culture and is called by many names. ”Svētelis” is one and means ”saint” or ”blesser”, as storks symbolise blessing and harmony – especially if they decide to build a nest near your house.

Among the many sayings and superstitions in Latvian folklore, spotting the first spring stork varies in meaning. Some believe seeing it standing in a field brings happiness. For others, spotting it in flight is a blessing. Storks are also believed to avoid nesting near homes with no harmony, and disturbing their nests may attract lightning. When flying over a home, they signal impending happiness, often heralding a birth.