E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Stork,
a sacred bird, according to the Swedish legend received its name from flying round the cross of the crucified Redeemer, crying Styrka! styrka! (Strengthen! strengthen!). (See Christ, in CHRISTIAN TRADITIONS.)
1
Storks are the sworn foes of snakes. Hence the veneration in which they are held. They are also excellent scavengers. (Stork, Anglo-Saxon, storc.)
2
“Twill profit when the stork, sworn foe of snakes,
